For years I’ve listened to and seen propaganda posters portraying children’s future being at risk because of funding. The problem is not totally funding. It’s poor leadership/management.
There is no accountability. I’m an advocate for a strong education system. But, tax increases are not the magic fix. I believe it’s an excuse to appeal to our emotions. When taxes are raised for education we never see improvement (Arizona consistently ranks at the bottom of the list in education with a high dropout rate). School programs and staffing have been cut yet the state reported a surplus of revenue for this year. Where is out tax money being spent? It’s political driven. Having taught in an east valley school district, I have seen mismanagement by the administration at school and district level. Interestingly, most teachers’ number one complaint is lack of support by administrators. A solution would be to limit the time (three-five years) administrators could remain at an school/district. By doing so we would introduce new, creative ideas with new staff. Administrators should spend time in the classroom teaching to keep current with academic issues.
We need to vote no on Proposition 204. Proponents say the measure will produce a better-educated and skilled workforce. How interesting. They have been saying there’s no problem with our system, just lack of money. Will the $$ go exclusively to education? I guarantee if Prop 204 passes, we will be asked for another tax increase within a year. We will hear that our children’s future is at risk. Meanwhile, administrators will be sitting comfortably drawing big paychecks and bidding time for retirement. Fix the real problem.
