Issue Position: Public Education

Issue Position

Being the mother of two kids who attended local public schools, and the spouse of a school board member for nearly 15 years, shows how vitally important education is to me. Failing to focus attention on providing quality public education for every Missouri child puts our state in serious jeopardy for future economic development. I will work hard to fully fund the state mandated formula for K-12 education, that is currently underfunded by $500 million.

We must also focus on higher education. As a graduate of a local community college and state university, I believe we must ensure that no Missouri resident is unable to obtain a college degree due to its cost. Although it's been some time since I was a night school student, I still remember how hard it could be to scrape up $200 or $300 for the classes I took at the community college. In the last ten years, tuition has risen more than 50% for community colleges, and more than 80% for a four-year colleges and universities. I think we can do better to help all Missourians afford a college degree.

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