World Class Schools for a World Class City

By Kevin Johnson

Kevin is an experienced leader in improving our schools. Here's how he'd use the bully pulpit citywide.

A Johnson Administration will be a partner to:

>> Expand the number of high quality preschool and early childhood education programs.

>> Create a portfolio of compelling, engaging schools and programs for all students.

>> Increase support for arts and music education for all children at all grade levels.

>> Bolster after school programs throughout the city to increase engagement amongst students to improve academic achievement and reduce truancy and youth crime.

>> Develop programs and initiatives to better prepare the next generation for jobs in the global economy.

>> Improve collaboration between city agencies and schools.

>> Recognize and reward effective educators.

These efforts will require the collaboration of the school districts in the Sacramento area as well as city agencies, businesses and civic organizations. To learn more, read my Education Plan.

Key Points

>> Fewer than one-third of the schools in Sacramento City Unified School District met state growth targets last year. That means a large number of our students are attending schools that are not showing the academic growth that is expected.

>>Everyone has to be invested in the success of our public schools because the impact of education is far-reaching. Businesses must have an educated work force. Better educated youth are less likely to be involved in criminal activities. High school graduates save society significant investment in services. The short and long term health of our city is dependent on ensuring we are educating our children well.

>>A college graduate makes $1 million more during the course of their career than a high school graduate. Society benefits by approximately $127,000 for each new high school graduate in terms of additional taxes paid and money saved on social services.

>>My experience shows that it is absolutely possible to ensure that all children achieve at the highest levels through high expectations and accountability. In my administration, schools will be a priority of the city.