A strong public education system is the very foundation of a democracy because of its ability to offer equal opportunities to all citizens. However our country's commitment to its education system has continued to shrink and now makes up a diminutive portion of the federal budget. Studies have shown that those who complete at least a high school education will be more economically productive, more likely to vote and be civically engaged, less likely to commit crimes, or become a burden to the state. Therefore each dollar invested in education is an investment in the overall economy. Congress can make this investment by renewing their commitment to funding K-12 education, work to keep higher education affordable and take steps to prepare students for a globally competitive marketplace.
Source: http://blumenauer.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=266&Itemid=148
