I am a Progressive Democrat running for Congress District 3 Nevada. I am a nurse, author and peace activist.
Children are our most important asset and a college education for them is an investment in our future.
The workforce must be prepared to compete effectively in the global economy and a college education provides the essential knowledge and skills that ultimately have a positive effect on a person's future earnings, consumption and productivity levels. For Nevada that translates into increased future income and tax revenues as people with college degrees have better job opportunities and higher incomes.
Incorporating technology into the curriculum such as offering course options through the internet and television allows students to achieve their educational goals on their own schedules. Electronic media offers students and instructors the flexibility to accommodate their schedules. This is all possible without sacrificing academic quality. Money earmarked for education must be used for education, not to cover deficits forcing schools to increase tuition and fees. Investment in technology for higher education institutions will allow colleges to expand student enrollment and their revenue bases without reducing the number of available seats. We must better equip our schools to meet the changing needs of our students.
Funding for community colleges must be made available; community colleges must be affordable to all college-eligible students. Financial aid needs to be available to low-income children so they can receive a college education. Forgivable loan programs for students must be created so students do not abandon their dreams of a college education due to overwhelming financial burdens. Our invetment in our children in the short-term will generate higher earnings and greater productivity in the long run. This is good for our children - and good for Nevada.