 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
University of Colorado
Colorado is capable of becoming one of the very top technological academic centers in the country. We must continue to prioritize the development and promotion of our state university programs, as these work to attract such important economic stimulants as new biotechnology, aerospace and engineering businesses to the state.
Budgetary Improvements
Before recent budget cuts, Colorado spent $3 billion (40% of our state budget) on education from kindergarten through 12th grade, and more than another $800 million on higher education. These figures represent more than 40% of the state budget, an accurate reflection of the priority of education. Our goal, particularly in tough economic times, is to make every dollar in the education budget matter. If current budget cuts increase, we must do more with less. As with many of the programs I advocate, the solution is to be found in the elimination of waste and the nonproductive activities mentioned above.
We must continue to protect what matters, our children and our future.
K-12: Developing Young Minds
The best people to talk with about our school systems are the teachers themselves. They have the inside track on the challenges and areas for improvements in our systems.
Colorado's public school system needs improvement, but the problems rarely originate with our teachers. On the contrary, we demand so much from our teachers—in addition to actually teaching students—that their resources are drained. We must strengthen the bond between teachers, students and parents by eliminating the inefficient demands and distractions to remedy some of the mistaken priorities that have crept into our schools.
Protecting the Fine Art of Teaching
Our educational system is part of the backbone of our economic recovery and future. The quality of life for all Coloradans is affected, directly or indirectly, by the quality of education we provide at all levels in our wonderful state.
We must remove the impediments that keep teachers from being able to do that for which they are hired, which is to teach. We must concentrate on delivering not just memorized data, but understanding and the ability to apply what is learned. When teachers are freed from inefficient and distracting concerns, they will have more time to teach. School time is precious, as is our children's future. Childhood is a time of learning and developing, and must be treated as a sacred phase of life.