Note from Rep. Gara: New Report: Fuzzy Education Numbers Create Fuzzy Math Students
March 24, 2014
Dear Friends and Neighbors: The old saying is that you are entitled to your own opinions, but not your own facts. That’s especially important when it involves student opportunities to succeed.
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NEWS: Administration Confirms: Much Larger BSA Increase Needed to Fill Education Shortfalls
March 20, 2014
JUNEAU – A new analysis of Parnell administration data confirms Alaska’s school districts need between three and six times the amount of the governor is proposing to increase per-student classroom funding in order to fill budget gaps for next school year. Representative Les Gara (D-Anchorage) released the analysis today as the House Finance Committee considers the governor’s omnibus education bill and other education measures.
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Rep. Josephson’s Newsletter: Gasline Talks: Part 1
March 17, 2014
As expected, the Governor’s new gas line proposal has dominated much of the discussion this session. Although the deal is far from complete, and may not ultimately be the best path forward, developing our natural gas reserves is critical to the future of our state. (Put simply, we’re running out of oil and it’s not coming back in familiar volumes—we need a replacement source of revenue!). Throughout this process, it is essential that Alaskans have access to accurate information so a beneficial and transparent deal can be negotiated on the behalf of all Alaskans.
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NEWS: Democrats Move Pro-Job, Public Education and Cost-Saving Budget Amendments
March 13, 2014
JUNEAU – Today, Alaska House Democratic legislators offered a series of amendments to the state operating budget to improve public education, promote workforce development, and trim wasteful spending.
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Rep. Josephson’s Newsletter: Silencing Alaskans?
March 11, 2014
An ongoing theme from last year’s session is the attempt to cut the public out of the state’s decision-making process. I was opposed to HB 77 (one of last year’s most contentious bills) from its inception. I was proud of the public uproar over that bill. Alaskans’ voices always deserve to be heard. HB 77 is on the move again as well as another bill that aims to reduce public involvement (HB 47).
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