State Board Resolution: Increased Revenue for Schools

WHEREAS: the Iowa State Board of Education strongly believes that an exemplary education system is the key to a prepared workforce and strong state economy.

WHEREAS: the Iowa State Board of Education recognizes the need for Iowa's schools to be good stewards of state resources and will continue to work to assure an efficient use of state education dollars.

WHEREAS: all students have the right to a high quality education, which will prepare them for long-term career success in a modern workforce.

WHEREAS: research shows that improving teacher performance in the classroom is a primary way to improve student learning.

WHEREAS: Iowa will meet the demand for increased accountability for student learning by improving classroom instruction.

WHEREAS: Iowa cannot be committed to educational accountability unless it is also committed to building the capacity of the system to meet current needs.

WHEREAS: current capacity for improving student learning has been substantially reduced by the elimination of funds for professional development and other funding shortfalls are causing increased class sizes further jeopardizing improvements in student performance.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Iowa State Board of Education calls on all Iowans to dedicate themselves to the preservation of our nationally-recognized education system which has benefited generations of our citizens. We implore our elected officials to remember our quality education system is the centerpiece of Iowa's quality of life. These officials must find ways to avert the financial crisis that now threatens this system by taking bold action to protect and preserve this valuable state asset by creating opportunities for increased funding for education.

December 15, 2003