We have an obligation to support our kids, which means ensuring public education is meeting the needs of every single child. In the case that a child’s needs aren’t being met, we should be able to provide options for parents so they can choose the best fit for their child. Educational success should not be dictated by zip code and there is no one-size-fits-all for education.
Teachers are critical to supporting a student’s future success. Today, I awarded Julie Pickard from Des Moines Christian School with the Iowa Medal of Merit for being named the 2024 Herzog Foundation’s Christian Teacher of the Year Award.
Unfortunately, schools across the country are having trouble finding and retaining qualified teachers like Julie. To help address the nationwide teacher shortage, I helped introduce the Strengthening Educator Workforce Data Act to strengthen our teacher workforce and provide better opportunities for all students.
Research shows a good teacher matters more to student achievement than any other school-related factor. We need teachers to fill good paying jobs within our community and this legislation will allow communities to hire new teachers and retain the current ones we have now.
Bottom Line: We need good teachers to create a good future for Iowa’s students.