Make education funding a priority

On April 6, The Gazette published an editorial from guest columnist, Representative Ken Rizer entitled, 'Facts about Iowa School Funding Deal.” Here is what Rep. Rizer neglected to mention:

He ignores what is happening in our schools right now. The Linn-Mar board and superintendent are making $519,000 in reductions for next year. In Cedar Rapids, the superintendent said the Republican plan is $2 million short resulting in cuts and staff reductions. Marion Independent has delayed infrastructure repairs, and will have larger class size because of an increase of 40 students in the coming year. Cuts were made last year in Marion as well. Finally, College Community, one of the fastest growing districts in the state, will continue a hiring freeze that was put into place last year. They expect an average of 140 additional students which would normally result in an increase on average of 4-5 staff members.

While it is true that the largest portion of the state budget goes to education, the Governor and the Legislature have given tax cuts and tax incentives in the hope of attracting business to the state in the hope of promoting economic growth. This is a false hope at best. Potential employers list education and quality of life as top priorities when considering where to locate.

A well-educated work force is paramount when looking at economic growth and prosperity for our citizens.

Republicans in the Iowa House have knowingly broken the law for six years in a row (Rep. Rizer has joined them for the last two years) by not setting basic state funding for public schools (called Supplemental State Aid) on time. When Republicans finally set school funding, the increases over those six years are the lowest in Iowa history. In 2012, schools actually got a

ZERO percent increase in state funding due to Republican delays.

As we're seeing here in our own community these delays and political tactics at the Capitol result in larger class sizes, program cuts, and the elimination of teaching and staff positions all of which means school districts are forced to raise property taxes to make up the difference. If that weren't enough, a bill is moving through the House to divert $6000 per student to private schools which would come from public school funds.

As a candidate for State Representative and a teacher for 26 years, I believe it's time to make public schools our top priority again. We need new leadership at the State House who will listen to us.

I will be a champion for the kids of Linn County because they deserve it and are our future leaders. And they need it now more than ever.

' Molly Donahue is a teacher at Harding Middle School and a candidate for House District 68. Comments: donahueforrep@gmail.com