AASB 2018 Legislative Talking Points
Talking points covering ten current topics being discussed during the 2018 legislative session. A PDF copy of these talking points can be downloaded here.
A STABLE FISCAL PLAN FOR ALASKA
Alaska must have a long-term approach to funding the costs of public education and other services upon which Alaska’s students and their families depend. The plan should be strategic, sustainable and realistic, providing a framework for balancing budgets while adequately funding public education.
EDUCATION IS AN IMMEDIATE AND LONG-TERM INVESTMENT
An investment in education is an investment in Alaska. Immediate economic benefits come to communities through the employment of school staff and programs. More importantly, investing in the education of Alaska’s children is one of the surest ways to sustain our economy.
HIGHLY QUALIFIED TEACHERS
The most significant factor affecting student achievement is the quality of the teacher who delivers instruction to the student.
MEANINGFUL OPPORTUNITIES IN ALASKA FOR ALASKA’S GRADUATES
The key to Alaska’s future success and prosperity is the ability to provide opportunities for meaningful careers and economic reward to its graduates through relevant instruction.
SUPPORT FUNDING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ALASKA’S EDUCATIONAL CHALLENGE
Many Alaskan students face a variety of challenges, which may result in achievement gaps. Transformative change of Alaska’s education system may provide for an excellent education for every student every day.
SUPPORT EDUCATION FUNDING (HB 339)
School districts face increasing costs in delivering education each year. To maintain adequate, quality instruction and programs that may align with Alaska’s Education Challenge and each district’s educational vision increased funding is necessary.
EARLY FUNDING (SB 131 HB 287)
Early funding will allow school boards and district administration to plan instruction and staffing for the upcoming school year effectively.
CIP (MAJOR MAINTENANCE)
The Alaska State Legislature and the Governor should fund the constitutionally mandated need for educationally appropriate school facilities and major school maintenance.
NO MORE UNFUNDED MANDATES
Schools have been inundated with statutes, regulations and court decisions that require additional services without accompanying appropriations. With limited and decreasing resources due to significant revenue shortfalls and increasing costs and expectations for services, unfunded mandates result in an overwhelming financial burden.
PRE-SCHOOL
The foundation of cognition is established early in childhood, and research clearly demonstrates the efficacy of educational programming for pre-k children. Access to these programs is important for every child in Alaska.
# # #