Issue Position: Education

Issue Position

I support full funding of the Thornton Act. The Governor and General Assembly need to ensure that the budget provides the funding increases promised by the Thornton Act, including the full GCEI (Geographic Cost of Education Index) amount.

I also support funding of at least $250 million annually for school construction. Many of Maryland's schools are decades old, and there are several jurisdictions (such as Baltimore County) that need new schools. Sufficient funding for school renovation and construction is essential. I also would work to establish a parent advisory board on school renovation and construction.

I also support efforts to provide the tools and resources that teachers need in the classroom, be it more professional development, mentoring for young teachers, or technology training.

To increase volunteer opportunities in schools for parents and grandparents, I support creation of a "Community Corps" that would encourage citizens to volunteer with schools and public safety and health agencies. Residents would be encouraged to commit to a certain number of hours of volunteer service in return for an education award. The education award would be good for ten years and could be transferred to a family member. Through "Community Corps," residents could help improve our schools and earn an education award that can help offset the rising cost of college.

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