Failing to Fund Our Future: A Call to Invest in Public Education
The Unmet Promise of Public Education
In an enlightening interview with C-SPAN, National Education Association President Becky Pringle shed light on the disheartening truth that America has consistently fallen short in investing in its public schools. This failure to provide equitable funding has far-reaching implications, particularly for students who require additional support.
A Legacy of Neglect
Pringle pointed out that despite being aware of the need, the U.S. has never reached a level of investment that would enable those students requiring more resources to receive them. The consequences of this neglect are evident in the stark disparities between schools and communities, where some districts struggle to provide even the most basic necessities.
A Clear Solution: Vice President Kamala Harris' Approach
In her endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris for president, Pringle highlighted the significance of Harris' unwavering commitment to public education. The NEA president emphasized that with Harris at the helm, America can take a crucial step towards rectifying this historical oversight.
A Proven Track Record
Pringle praised Vice President Harris not only for her dedication to public education but also for her forward-thinking vision for the future of American schools. She commended Harris' commitment to ensuring every student has access to a qualified teacher and support staff, underscoring the importance of investing in the people who shape our children's minds.
The Numbers Don't Lie
A look at the National Center for Education Statistics reveals that during the 2020-2021 school year, the U.S. spent an impressive $927 billion on public elementary and secondary education. This translates to a significant $18,614 per public school student enrolled in the fall of that academic year. While these figures demonstrate America's spending prowess, they do not necessarily translate to equitable funding or a solution for our nation's most pressing educational challenges.
An International Perspective
According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), when it comes to annual public education spending by country, the U.S. ranks eighth. However, when including both public and private expenditures, America catapults to second place. While these statistics may seem impressive at first glance, they fail to capture the full complexity of this issue.
An Ally for Education
In her statement endorsing Vice President Harris, NEA President Pringle highlighted Minnesota Governor Tim Walz's reputation as an 'Education Governor' during his tenure leading the state. She praised his unwavering commitment to public school students and educators, making him a valuable ally in the fight for quality education.
A Call to Action
In this candid conversation with Becky Pringle, we are reminded that investing in our schools is not just a moral obligation but also a crucial step towards building a brighter future for all Americans. It's time for us to come together and address this long-standing issue head-on.