It’s true!  I’m an options guy.  I like to have choices.  KitKat…no…Snickers…no…hmmm…Almond Joy!  Ya that’s it, that’s the ticket.  I’m like that with most things in my life.  Including the ability for my wife and I to make the best decision for my children when it comes to their educational opportunities.

My oldest daughter attends USU.  She could have made it into BYU no problem…but she, and we, decided USU.  My oldest son attends at the PG High School.  He’s getting a great education!  3.9 GPA this last term (update: 10-29-08 kevin said his grade is actually a 4.0 now)…that’s my boy!  Son number two…Lincoln Academy, a public charter school in north PG…he loves it there.  And, our not so much “baby” any more,  John Hancock Charter School.  Four kids, four schools.  Phew!

Lots of choices and parental decisions.  Whether you’ve chosen a private school, home school, traditional public school, or public charter or on-line school, I’ll support you.   These are your decisions.  And, Utah’s educational system has them ALL!

That’s why I’m a little confused when people (my opponent) go around my neighborhood telling people my legislative record is “non-supportive” of Public Education.  What?

Let’s review the facts:

• I voted FOR teachers’ pay increases in 2008 to the tune of $1700 per teacher.  In 2007, I voted FOR the $2500 per teacher raise and the $1000 one-time bonus.  These budget increases represent a two year salary increase of $4200 per teacher (on-going).
• I voted FOR increased compensation for teacher’s supplies and materials reimbursement.
• I voted FOR a number of proposals giving teachers who are looking to increase their earning potential, merit and differential pay tracks.
• I voted FOR increased public education spending by $240M in 2006, $489.5M in 2007, and $440M in 2008.  That’s $1.17B (Billion) in new money for public education over a three year period.  Total price tag in 2008 for the State’s portion of public education was $2.686B (Fed + State = $3.681B)
• I voted to hold public education “HARMLESS” during the 2008 Special Session.  Every other department and division of state government recieved 4%-6% budget cuts.
• I voted FOR student enrollment growth, I voted FOR new technology upgrades throughout the state’s 40 districts (41, including the new Canyons District) and charter schools.
• I have carried the legislation (School Fee Amendments) for the last three years that would eliminate parents’ need to pay academic related fees for classes reuired for graduation.  Link HERE for YT video.  This legislation has been supported by the Utah State School Boards’ Association and the State School Superintendants’ Association.
• I have actively participated in the further development and support of Public Charter Schools throughout the state.  (Remember…I’m an options guy?!)

Come to think of it…I can’t remember if I’ve ever voted AGAINST a significant public education proposal (worth considering).  So, why is it the UEA hasn’t endorsed me?  Link HERE.

My guess…I’m an options guy!