KEJA
Economic
Justice Policy
Framework
CRITICAL ISSUES 2006-2010
Education
Goal: Provide quality, affordable
education at all levels—from early childhood through post-secondary—in
order to improve the quality of life of all Kentuckians.
Analysis: Education is the foundation of a great state. Quality education is fundamental to a strong economy and a healthy and engaged public. It is key to incubating new ideas and spurring the creativity needed to make Kentucky thrive.
In the past, Kentucky has made important commitments to and investments in education. However, in recent years, decision-makers have fallen through on their promise to maintain and build on these investments.
In 2005, Governing Magazine ranked Kentucky 50th in per capita spending on education. Our state ranked 41st in Quality Counts’ 2007 Chance for Success Index which ranked the states based on 13 indicators related to education from the cradle to career. Teacher pay in our state is well below the national average. Class sizes are pushing the limits.
Tuition at state colleges and universities has skyrocketed in recent years as state funding for these institutions has plummeted. In fact, the National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education gave Kentucky a grade of F in affordability in 2006, down from a D- in 2005 and a C in 2002.
Principles: Kentucky must adequately fund a system of lifelong learning if we are ever to reach our fullest potential as a state. We must ensure that educational opportunities are affordable and accessible across the Commonwealth. We must invest in an education system that begins in early childhood and extends into adulthood. Such an investment would affect every Kentuckian and every aspect of their quality of life.
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