Issue Position: Education

Issue Position

Better Funding: Currently, 77% of education funding comes from local sources--mainly property taxes. Because of our over-reliance on property taxes affluent communities can provide quality education but most poor communities cannot.
Napoleon supports legislation that would uphold the State of Illinois'
constitutional mandate to provide at least 50% funding for education.

Expanding Pre-School for All (PFA): Napoleon supports PFA because early
childhood education has demonstrated a significant positive impact on children's future academic performance. Senate District 15 currently has the capacity to almost double enrollment in early childhood education programs. As state senator, Napoleon would conduct pre-school registration drives to provide a head start for as many children as possible.

Race to the Top: Napoleon supports President Obama's "Race to the Top" education program. Unfortunately, last year Illinois missed out on $70 million in federal "Race to the Top" funds. Napoleon would propose forming an education funding task force that would ensure Illinois receives its fair share of federal education funding.

Engineering Diversity (HB 1256/PA 97-0288): This new legislation creates the Diversity in Engineering scholarship program to promote representation of minority groups in the field of civil engineering. Napoleon, as state senator, would promote the program at Southland high schools to ensure as many Southland students as possible are considered for the scholarship.

Expanding Sports: Napoleon benefited from strong community sports programs. But not every child has the opportunity to play the sports they enjoy. Napoleon is committed to expanding sporting opportunities in Southland schools to include lacrosse, swimming, and other sports that help kids stay in school, maintain good health and build character and new friendships.

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