Show your support for higher school funding

Thanks to all the Linn-Mar, Marion and Cedar Rapids School District students, parents, foundation members, teachers, board members and administrators who have reached out to me about the need for an increase in school funding. I also have been in touch with business leaders from Marion and Cedar Rapids who support quality education.

I was proud to cast my vote with Senate Democrats who approved a 4 percent increase in aid, while House Republicans approved 2 percent. The issue now goes to a conference committee for negotiations.

Despite what you might hear from critics, a 4 percent increase is part of the Senate's balanced budget. We are directed, by law, not to spend more revenue than we take in. We have done our figuring and 4 percent works in the present equation.

But we still need to hear from you. Iowa leaders, parents, students and teachers have launched a new organization to connect concerned citizens across the state. It's called Parents for Great Iowa Schools. The group is fighting to make sure every child in Iowa gets a world-class public education that will prepare them for the 21st-century economy, generate the skilled workforce Iowa needs, and encourage problem-solving, critical-thinking, creative and innovative young people.

Iowa's public schools provide education for about 475,000 elementary, middle school and high school students. That means the short- and long-term effects of underfunding our public schools could be significant. In the short term, our students need access to the best teachers and techniques in a top-notch setting. In the long term, they must be able to address life's challenges and contribute to their communities as thoughtful adults.

Last month, school leaders told lawmakers another year of inadequate state funding would force them to pack more students into classrooms, rely on old textbooks and technology, and cut back on literacy efforts. We can't do this. Local schools need to know they'll get adequate funding in a timely way. In addition, the Iowa Department of Education is asking for additional money specifically for summer school and literacy efforts throughout the state.

If you share these concerns, go to www.parentsforgreatiowaschools.com to sign a petition encouraging Iowa lawmakers to invest in public schools again. You can also follow the Parents for Great Iowa Schools on Facebook at facebook.com/ParentsforGreatIowaSchools.

' Sen. Liz Mathis (D-Robins) serves District 34 in Linn County. She is Chair of the Human Resources Committee and serves on Education, Commerce, Economic Growth, Veterans and Appropriations. Comments: Liz.Mathis@legis.iowa.gov