To view on the web: http://www.akdemocrats.org/ellis/051206_fromthedeskof_sen_johnny_ellis61.htm

From the Desk of
Senator Johnny Ellis
Representing the neighborhoods of Airport Heights, Campbell Park, College Village, Downtown, Fairview, Geneva Woods, Government Hill, Green Acres, Midtown, Rogers Park, Spenard, South Addition, Tudor and Waldron

e-mail: Senator_Johnny_Ellis@legis.state.ak.us
On the web at ellis.akdemocrats.org
Toll free: 1-888-330-3704

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

        When I head into each legislative session, education is one of my top priorities. I believe there is no greater investment; young Alaskans are the future of our state, and must be prepared for that responsibility. I am happy to report that this session proved to be a breakthrough year for school funding, and I wanted to give you information on a number of important education-related actions the Legislature took this session.

Funding For Anchorage Schools

        This year, the Governor recommended a record increase of $90 million for education, increasing the base student allocation from $4,919 to $5,380. While I applauded the Governor for this boost to school funding, I felt that Alaska schools needed more in order to compensate for growing student populations and high energy costs. Under pressure from teachers, parents, and other legislators, the House Finance Committee also added $35 million in additional funds, as well as a provision that extended the date for municipalities to receive reimbursement, up to 70%, from the state for school renovation and construction bonds. The Legislature also put significant resources into a teacher mentor program, as well as grants for charter schools.

        Overall, the changes amount to an additional $6 million to Anchorage schools. The Anchorage School District will not have to cut its budget, and I am advocating that it put the funds towards decreasing class sizes. I was pleased when the House Finance Committee increased funding for our schools, and I proudly voted YES when it came before the Senate.

        The Joint House and Senate Conference Committee agreed on the Senate version of the proposed University operating budget. The Senate version, totaling over $773 million, struck a balance between the needs of the University and other state agencies. This 7% increase over last year's appropriation met the Regent's request. Along with the capital appropriations, including the Integrated Science Building, this budget should allow the University to move forward with it's mission to offer the highest quality education to students.

        Many of you may remember the extraordinary debate last year over Senate Bill 141, which drastically changed our retirement system for new public employees and teachers. Despite promises from the sponsors of SB 141 that the bill was complete, experts unearthed numerous serious problems with the bill, and this year Representative Seaton introduced HB 475 to "clean-up" many of the remaining issues with the bill. The House adopted an amendment to delay the implementation of SB 141 until July 2007. I supported this change, which would give the state more time to iron out problems with our new retirement system. Unfortunately, Republicans eliminated the delay in the Senate Community and Regional Affairs committee, and the legislation passed the Senate without being restored. HB 475 was sent back to the House for concurrence, however it was not taken up before the House adjourned on May 9th.

        Unfortunately, this fight is not over, and I believe Alaska will be wrestling with the repercussions of SB 141 for years to come. I am particularly concerned that the reduced benefit plan will affect Alaska's ability to recruit and retain quality teachers. I hope we have another shot to fix PERS/TRS in the years ahead, and will keep working for a fair and stable benefit package.

Where we go from here:

        In addition to truly adequate funding for our public schools, my three ideas for improving education are:

• Smaller class sizes- students do better with more individual attention. If we are serious about leaving no child behind and in a world of accountability and high stakes testing, smaller classes are essential.
• Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten- Research into early brain development has convince me we need to make sure every child arrives at school ready to learn.
• Parental Involvement- Research also indicates that children with involved parents do better academically and parents as first teachers should be encouraged and supported.

        Best Regards,

        Senator Johnny Ellis

P.S. As always, it is my honor and privilege to serve you. Let's keep in touch!