DSEA President Stephanie Ingram, a 4th grade teacher in the Colonial School District, released the following statement in response to the Public Education Funding Commission’s vote to pursue a hybrid framework for Delaware education funding reform:
“Today’s vote by the Public Education Funding Commission marks a historic step for students and families in Delaware’s public schools.
We have known for decades that Delaware’s antiquated and inequitable education funding formula leaves students in less affluent schools and districts at a distinct disadvantage. Yet, year after year, efforts to improve that system have been stymied by a false choice between supporting our students and paying our educators the wages they deserve.
Thanks to the leadership of Rep. Kim Williams and Sen. Laura Sturgeon combined with the Meyer Administration’s commitment to succeeding where past efforts have failed, the Public Education Funding Commission today agreed to pursue an ambitious but achievable hybrid funding framework that will put Delaware on a path to improve educational outcomes for all students, while recognizing all students learn best when they have equitable access to highly trained educators, smaller class sizes, and safe learning environments.
DSEA stands ready to help develop a phased-in implementation plan that will ensure all students benefit from the path forward, while providing school leaders, educators, parents, and community members with ample opportunity to provide input along the way.”
