Education: Strengthening our public schools

By Mark Hanson

Mark Hanson, Ph.D., has been both a teacher and administrator. He understands that even in a tight economy, not providing a good education for our young people is simply mortgaging our future. He is deeply concerned about slashing education funding, high tuition costs at our colleges and universities, and dismal test scores by California schools that once led the nation.We must strengthen our public education system to help students at all levels.

In addition, he received awards from the National Council of Teachers of English for and California School Boards Association for programs he developed in cross-disciplinary writing and portfolio assessment.

A strong supporter of public education, Mark is a former administrator of the Grossmont Union High School District, where he raised millions of dollars in education grants to help local students. He chaired the Grossmont Race/Human Relations Task Force, working to make our schools safe for all students. He has authored five books and holds four degrees: a PhD in education/corporate training from Claremont Graduate University, an M.A. in English and American literature/composition from the University of California, San Diego, and an M.A. in leadership and human behavior from the United States International University, and a B.A. in history from Luther College.

"As a teacher and school administrator, I've seen first-hand the positive impact that good public schools can make in students' lives. I taught English to high school and community college students.. My greatest sense of fullfillment, however, came in seeing students enjoy learning and go on to achieve successes in colleges, universities, and careers. For instance, I've had students become university professors and even win an Academy Award.

"As a parent, I want all children to have opportunities to fulfill their maximum potential. But sadly, the quality of education in California's elementary, middle and high schools has declined dramatically. Today, California ranks 48th out of the 50 states in student achievement testing. We spend less per child on education than 42 of the 50 states. Art and music are vanishing from our public schools, even though studies show a strong correlation between students with strong skills in art and music and those who excel in English and math.

"College opportunities for our children are disappearing. The percentage of California high school graduates who go on directly to college now ranks 39th in the nation. More and more students here cannot afford higher education. Since 2000, the cost to attend the University of California has skyrocketed 79%. State college costs are up 76%, and community college fees have gone up a staggering 136%..

"California has slashed financial aid and scholarships at the very time when students need help most. In addition, the number of high school counselors has been cut back sharply so many students are not even receiving the basic information they need about meeting college admission requirements. Schools also lack adequate vocational training programs to help those students who don't go to college be prepared for good-paying careers after they graduate.

"Preparing our young people for good careers is also an important priority. I favor reducing tuition rates at state colleges, universities and community colleges for all California students, but would raise tuition costs for foreign students to give priority to our children here at home. My plan would also provide partnerships with businesses to create internship programs for students in middle schools and high schools, as well as partnerships with unions for apprenticeship programs in skilled trades programs. I also support increased vocational training programs in schools, including vocational programs for special needs students.

"I will work to strengthen public education at all levels, so that California will once again lead the nation in providing the best possible education for our children."

I support:

• Training to create new teaching jobs and fill the critical shortage of qualified, full-time teachers in our schools

• Expanded pre-school education to help youngsters develop important learning skills Art, music, and hands-on learning skills in schools

• An increase in counselors, especially in high schools
• Reduction of fees and tuition at community colleges, state colleges, and universities

• Assistance for California veterans to afford college after military service

• Restoration of scholarships and an increase in financial aid for college-bound students

• Partnerships with unions to restore vocational programs and building trades apprenticeship programs in high schools

• Vocational programs for special needs students

• Partnerships with businesses to create internships and apprenticeship programs to provide vocational training and prepare students for successful careers

• English language programs including portfolio assessment and cross-disciplinary writing programs in middle schools and high schools

• Real-world projects and community service programs that allow high school seniors to present projects and receive evaluations from community members

• Assuring safety for all students in our public schools

• Tutoring and motivational programs for students failing to complete homework

"An investment in public education is a sound investment in our children's future. Please vote for me in November, so that I can utilize my experience as an educator to create a brighter future for all children in California."