Governor’s education proposals a positive step

MBAE believes the Governor’s education budget and legislative proposal is a positive step toward achieving the goals we’ve stated of: 1) equitable funding, and 2) continued reform of our education system to close achievement and skills gaps.

With respect to equitable funding, we commend the Governor’s commitment to increased funding, particularly for low-income and ELL students.  We’re also particularly encouraged by a proposal the Governor makes to embed in the foundation budget funding to incentivize and support early college and career pathways initiatives. This is really important recognition that students need stronger connections to future success.

With respect to reforms that will close achievement and skill gaps, MBAE continues to insist that funding increases be based on the true costs of proven practices and come with increased transparency and data reporting that ensure money goes directly to the students and the schools that need it most. The extent to which these principles are reflected in the bills is not clear, and we will be reviewing them in more detail to determine how the state will make sure new funding achieves a positive impact for students.

Increased investment provides a unique opportunity to strengthen our school leadership, so we’d like to see some specialized training and support for principals that improves their financial management ability and leadership skills and adherence to best practices.

We’d also like to see greater use of funding to support and spur innovation as well as greater autonomy for school leaders and professional support that enhances their leadership skills.

MBAE believes the Governor’s legislation provides the structural elements for addressing these issues and furthering discussion about how we can ensure all students get the excellent education they need and deserve.