Tag - education reform

January 18, 2012

The Republican Candidates’ Views on Education – Should We Do Away with the Department of Education?

By Blog Editor Susan Wells

As the field narrows and we get closer to a front runner emerging for the Republican nomination for president, it’s important that voters do their homework and really learn about each candidate and their views. The candidates do not agree on many topics, including education.

We looked at the remaining five candidates and their views on the future of education. Two of the candidates are in favor of eliminating the Department of Education. Is this a good idea?

The U.S. Department of Education’s website states its mission “is to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access.”

ED was created in 1980 by combining offices from several federal agencies. ED’s 4,400 employees and $68 billion budget are dedicated to:

  • Establishing policies on federal financial aid for education, and distributing as well as monitoring those funds.
  • Collecting data on America’s schools and disseminating research.
  • Focusing national attention on key educational issues.
  • Prohibiting discrimination and ensuring equal access to education.

I think the majority of Americans will agree our education system needs repair and reform. Some of the questions being asked of the candidates

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April 18, 2011

Are We Overbooking Our Children & Ourselves in a “Race to Nowhere?”

By Guest Blogger Debbie Leibold

I’m tired.  I have two sons (ages 13 and 10), I work part-time, I volunteer at both the elementary and the middle school, and I sit on a non-profit Board.  I drive the Mom taxi every afternoon back and forth between every sports practice known to man, piano and band practice, school ceremonies, volunteer opportunities, and a few play dates (when we have time to play).  I try to help with homework, manage a household, and get dinner on the table (when we aren’t stopping at Subway or some other drive-thru), and I try to have time to be a good Mom, wife, and friend.  Time for me is always on the bottom of the list.

I think many of us would agree that life seems crazy.  We are always in a hurry, always trying to get from one activity to the next, and always trying to do the right thing to help our children become the best students, athletes, musicians, leaders, and citizens.  I mean well, as I know you do, but lately I’ve started to question this roller coaster,

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