Teachers and Education
Ericka and I have 6 advanced degrees between us, our kids have experienced education venues throughout the US and overseas. Ericka's in Germany and my own kids in Kuwait and Netherlands. We understand education. I taught for 10 years and Ericka is a published author.
1. Support for all kids.
Growing up in a one-parent home, I understand firsthand the challenges many South Dakota kids face. That’s why I believe we must do more to support students who need guidance, mentorship, and stability. One of my ideas would be to host a military-style bivouac on the Governor’s grounds, bringing youth from across the state together to learn resilience, leadership, and practical tools to overcome the obstacles ahead of them. Life is hard and they need leaders who have been through it to set the example.
2. Support for teachers and staff.
Our teachers and school staff also deserve better. I cannot understand why the men and women who shape our children’s futures are not exempt for property taxes. Improve benefits and we may see recruiting and retention get better. Reduce the disparity in pay between school districts and staff. When an Educational Assistant can make just as much money at a fast-food restaurant, that is a concern. We should explore a pathway for substitute teachers to receive medical benefits when they work a consistent number of hours each month.
3. Increase support for SPED.
South Dakota should lead the nation in how we support students with special needs. Right now, many public schools struggle to integrate these students. There are programs for SPED but many are under-funded or full all the time. When we fund special-needs education appropriately, we strengthen every classroom and give every child a fair chance to succeed. The federal government provides partial funding for SPED and I will advocate for even more. Concentrate on Special Education programs at the elementary school levels and try to curb these issues before they escalate into young adults.
4. Kids still come to school hungry.
A stronger education system starts with stronger support—for students, teachers, staff, and families. Politicians like to bring up education when they are running for political office but if it was important why are kids still coming to school hungry? We need legislation that supports but does not create dependency and one that will keep parents accountable.
5. AI is coming...
In the next couple of years, AI will not only revolutionize education/research/technology it will change what jobs are available and we need to get out in front of it and focus on educational pathways that are available in the future. I am not as concerned with GPA or high standardized test scores I am interested in creating the next generation of students that can operate in the AI world.