MEA Votes

I have consistently voted against cuts to K-12 and higher education because I truly believe that if we are to reinvent our economy successfully, we need a strong, well-funded public education system. I also recognize that while dedicated teachers, school officials, and support staff are absolutely essential to creating sage quality learning environments, they alone are not enough. As a state, I feel we must stop asking our public servants to do more with less, and instead make the commitment to meet them half-way, investing in our schools, our children, and our future.

Without the creativity, innovations, and energy of young people, Michigan has no hope of evolving or expanding its economy. We cannot import inspiration, innovation or creativity. We must make those homegrown virtues, and education is the answer.

Plain and simple, I believe that investing in Michigan's future means investing in our children. They are our greatest resource and we have an obligation to ensure that they are prepared for the realities of the 21st century workforce.