School funding debate: Support schools for a strong economy

The Iowa Legislature has historically set funding for education before all other budgeting activities because education was a top priority. As a school board member participating for the first time in the process to set state supplemental aid (formerly known as allowable growth), I have been surprised to find that commercial property tax reduction has clearly been prioritized above education.

Certainly, we need to create an environment where business can grow and thrive in Iowa. Supporting business is key to our success as individuals, and key to increasing our standard of living.

However, the number one business requirement is the need to hire and retain highly educated and skilled employees. Our education system needs to be among the best in the world so our businesses have the employees they need to compete. What are key elements to hiring and retaining highly talented employees that could be employed anywhere in the nation? People look for communities with great education systems, great health care, safe communities and a great overall standard of living. Iowa can provide all these. Iowa can be a desired destination and be a 'best in the nation” place to raise a family.

We are fortunate to live in a state with a very low unemployment rate. This can also limit Iowa's ability to grow in increasingly competitive markets. It is not far-fetched to suggest that Iowa's potential may ultimately be determined by the education, skills and availability of our workforce. Developing a highly educated and skilled work force will lead to higher earnings for individuals and it is key to growing our state's businesses over time.

Can we afford to increase school funding? Let's look at our Midwestern neighbors. Wisconsin, Minnesota and Illinois all fund education at levels above the national average. Nebraska and Missouri are below national average but ahead of Iowa.

To win in business, we need to win in education. For Iowa to return to treating 'education as a foundation,” we need to invest in education and our students.

While the Iowa City Community School District has been advocating for a 6 percent increase, I do thank the Iowa Senate for supporting a 4 percent increase. While this may not move us forward, it should help prevent further erosion.

' Chris Lynch is a member of the Iowa City Community School Board. This column represents his opinions and not necessarily those of the board. Comments: Chris.Lynch@iowacityschools.org

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