Issue Position: Education

Issue Position

John believes that for too long, students, teachers, and parents have been shuffled from one education reform to another -- from standardized test to standardized test. He thinks the best thing we can do to improve Delaware's education system is to pick a strategy, and stick with it. Our education system, especially in the city, is not serving our kids the way it needs to.

Progress starts with giving every child access to high quality early childhood education. The foundations for success are built in the first years of a child's life. Delaware has made great progress in recent years getting more children enrolled in preschool programs that will prepare them for kindergarten. John wants to expand on these efforts so that every child enters school ready to learn.

John also believes that more control should be in the hands of the teachers in the classroom. In visiting dozens of Delaware schools over the past two decades, John has heard time and again from teachers and principals that they want fewer administrative burdens, and more hands-on assistance in the classroom. In some schools, wrap-around services are critical -- like school counseling, home visits, and making sure students' clothing, housing and food needs are met. In others, an extended school day might help students achieve at the next level. John believes that the point is this: District and school leaders need the flexibility and the funding to provide the resources each school -- and each child -- needs.

These resources will help schools better prepare students for college or a career. Today, nearly every good job requires some education beyond high school. Delaware high schoolers take Career Pathway classes that help them get a jump on the skills they'll need at the next level. We need to build on these programs to ensure that more Delaware students are earning valuable workforce certifications or taking classes that count for college credit.

Source