A strong Iowa economy starts with strong local schools

State Senator Herman Quirmbach, Chair of the Senate Education Committee.

The quality of local Iowa schools is central to our state’s economic opportunity. From day one, a good education prepares Iowans for the workforce and assures businesses that Iowa has the talented employees they need.

That’s why we care so much about investing in student achievement and maintaining our great local schools.

Governor Branstad was right to call for a predictable, stable and sustainable state budget. We need that predictability, stability and sustainability when it comes to local school funding.

If the state is an unreliable partner, we put student achievement at risk. Iowa’s parents, educators and students made that plain when they stood up for Iowa’s local schools last year. All Iowans—Democrats, Republicans and Independents—want our schools to be strong, now and in the future.

To ensure we achieve that goal, the Senate Education Committee has approved a 4 percent increase in basic state aid for Iowa’s K-12 schools for the 2013-2014 school year. After several tough years, this investment in our kids is definitely needed.

When we develop a balanced state budget, we’re setting priorities. Improving student achievement in a way that contributes to job creation and economic growth will continue to be a top priority for Iowans.