We need to reenvision our education system for the 21st century. With chronic absenteeism in primary and secondary education, and fewer young people considering college, we must do a better job in understanding the education and career preparation needs of the youngest generations. The Peoples’ Union recognizes that the K-12 public education system needs major reforms if it’s going to adequately prepare all children for adult lives and careers. Per-student spending widely varies across school districts and states, which is inherently unfair and unequal. We propose changing the financing of education at all levels and creating more options for young adults preparing for careers.
K-12 Education
The current system of public education financing through property taxes, income taxes, and other sources of government revenue yields unequal funding for schools, perpetuating systemic inequalities. According to Education Week, U.S. Census Bureau data shows wide disparities in school spending per student. On average, schools in the U.S. spend roughly $15,000 per student, but funding per student between states is very unequal. For example, per student spending is about $9,700 per student in Arizona compared to $26,700 in New York.
Recognizing the primary role of public education in providing a foundation for a healthy, informed society, the Peoples’ Union proposes a comprehensive overhaul of the funding system and implementation of enrichment programs. By redistributing property taxes to a Federal Education Fund (FEF) and prioritizing equal distribution, we can address educational disparities and foster a well-educated citizenry. It has been estimated that federalizing the public education system will not incur additional costs to taxpayers.
Under the proposed system, a percentage of local property taxes, traditionally allocated to funding public schools, will now be redirected to the FEF. This central fund will oversee public education in the U.S. and ensure equal distribution of resources to schools across the nation. Similar to how federal taxes from prosperous states support and subsidize less affluent states, the FEF will ensure that every school receives equitable funding, regardless of their geographical location or local property tax revenue.
Education is not only a matter of individual development but also crucial for the collective well-being of a nation. To address the challenges faced by low-income areas, the FEF will establish a committee to identify and define these regions. Children in low-income areas will receive free breakfast and lunch, ensuring that their basic nutritional needs are met. By alleviating hunger, we create a conducive environment for learning and empower children to reach their full potential.
Additionally, after school programs will be implemented by the federal government to provide a safe and enriching environment for youth. These programs will keep young individuals off the streets, offering supervision and engaging activities that stimulate their minds and creativity. Math clubs, science clubs, music clubs, and other similar initiatives will be offered, fostering a love for learning and encouraging holistic development.
Higher Education
The cost of higher education has increased more sharply than most other goods and services in the U.S. The decision to attend college must be weighed carefully considering the debt that will be accrued. We propose a comprehensive plan to ensure affordable access to higher education and technical training.
While not for everyone, a 2- or 4-year college degree can significantly increase future earning power and be a transformative learning experience. By providing government funding for 2-year associate’s degrees, 4-year bachelor’s degrees, and advanced degrees, while implementing rigorous testing criteria, we can address predatory lending practices and enable individuals to pursue educational paths aligned with their capabilities and societal needs.
To qualify for funding, individuals will need to meet specific testing criteria, ensuring that they possess the aptitude and potential to succeed in their chosen fields. This approach aims to prevent predatory lending practices and protect individuals from accumulating excessive debt for degrees that may not align with their job market prospects.
Today, government student loan interest rates range from 5% to 8% while private loans charge as much as 15% interest (Ulrich & Harrison, 2023). The Peoples’ Union believes private student loans should be subject to regulation, with interest rates capped at ¼-1% above the Federal interest rate. For example, the federal interest rate on 6/25/24 was 5.25% – 5.5%. Click here to find out what the current federal interest rate is today. This measure promotes transparency and fairness in the lending market, preventing exploitative practices and ensuring that students are not burdened with insurmountable debt.
Recognizing that traditional university education may not be suitable for everyone, we strongly advocate for the government to establish free technical training schools. These institutions will offer comprehensive training in various technical trades to prepare students to become electricians, plumbers, mechanics, HVAC technicians, cybersecurity professionals, and more. By providing accessible alternatives to university education, we empower individuals to pursue careers in fields that align with their interests and skills.