Note from Rep. Gara: Double Standard? Guv Freezes School Funding, but Grants Inflation Increases to Every Other State Agency
February 9, 2012
While I look for common ground with our Governor - like our efforts to keep pushing to find ways to build a natural gas pipeline (we agree a large diameter line that exports gas, produces low-cost gas, and brings in revenue is smarter than a small in-state line that brings us very high cost natural gas and no revenue) - I do disagree with him on educational policy.
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Rep. Gara: Parnell Pumps Money Into All Agencies - Except Education
February 9, 2012
Proposed budget flat funds education, covers inflation increases for all other agencies
This year Governor Sean Parnell proposes to fund K-12 students at the same level as they were funded two years ago, yet his budget includes increases for every other state agency other than education.
“Freezing school funding to 2010 levels, without recognizing costs have gone up with inflation, translates into a major education cut. The proof’s in the pudding. It is causing schools across the state to plan for layoffs and the end of courses and summer school. The bottom line is that the Governor has granted state employees and bureaucrats inflation increases – just not kids,” said Rep. Les Gara.
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Rep. Miller Introduces Bill to Help Parents Attend Parent-Teacher Conferences
February 8, 2012
No one should have to choose between their job and their kid’s education
JUNEAU – Today, Representative Bob Miller (D-Fairbanks) introduced legislation to make it easier for parents to attend parent-teacher conferences so they can stay involved in their children’s education. The bill (HB 315) would allow parents to take up to four hours a year of unpaid leave to attend parent-teacher conferences without having to worry about losing their job.
“No one should have to choose between keeping their job and getting involved in their children’s education,” said Rep. Miller. “The more we can help parents get involved and stay involved, the more likely their children are to succeed in school and in life.”
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House Bill 315 “Parent Teacher Conferences”
February 8, 2012
As the legislature continues to focus on better educating our children, one constant remains: no one is more important to a child’s education than his or her parents. It is vital that parents play an active role in educating their kids. HB 315 will allow parents to take two hours of unpaid leave twice a year to attend parent-teacher conferences so they can get involved and stay involved in their children’s education without fear of losing their jobs.
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House Bill 272 “Student Loan Interest Reductions”
February 2, 2012
Currently Alaskans pay interest rates of roughly 7% and 8% for outstanding and new student loans. In contrast, used car loans are currently being issued by some lenders at 3% and less. Many Alaskans are struggling and Alaska has a history of losing those who obtain higher education degrees and job training to jobs outside of Alaska…
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