Investing in Public Education: A Matter of Equity and Excellence
The State of Public Education in America
As we reflect on the current state of public education in the United States, it is imperative to acknowledge that our nation has consistently fallen short of investing in its schools the way they deserve. National Education Association President Becky Pringle recently highlighted this glaring issue, underscoring the necessity for a more equitable and effective approach to funding our public schools.
A Nation Uncommitted to Public Education
According to Pringle, America has never prioritized its public schools sufficiently. Despite knowing what needs to be done, we have failed to provide adequate funding, resulting in an uneven distribution of resources. This disparity disproportionately affects students who require more support, perpetuating the existing education gap.
The statistics paint a stark picture: $927 billion was spent on public elementary and secondary education during the 2020-2021 school year alone, with each student receiving approximately $18,614 in funding. While these numbers might seem substantial, they merely scratch the surface of what is truly needed to ensure every child receives a quality education.
Rankings Reveal More Than Meets the Eye
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) recently ranked countries by their annual public education spending. The United States placed eighth on this list, despite being second when private expenditures were included. This ranking serves as a humbling reminder that our nation can do more to support its students.
A Champion of Public Education Emerges
The National Education Association's (NEA) endorsement of Kamala Harris for president is no coincidence. The NEA President herself has been vocal about her support, touting the running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, as an “education governor.” His unwavering dedication to public school students and educators, as well as his allyship with working families and unions, make him a shining example of what public education should strive for.
The NEA's Unwavering Commitment
Becky Pringle's unwavering commitment to the cause is palpable. As she emphasizes the need for more substantial investments in our schools, her passion and conviction are evident. Her words serve as a call to action: let us prioritize public education with the urgency it deserves.
The choice between investing in the status quo or pursuing excellence through equitable funding is clear-cut. Vice President Kamala Harris' approach presents an appealing solution, especially considering her proven track record and comprehensive vision for education's future. This path forward guarantees every student receives a quality education, complete with qualified teachers and support staff.
The National Education Association's unwavering commitment to this cause serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that collective action can lead to transformative change.