Education

Education is the bedrock of opportunity in this country. It is the tools we give the next generation in order to succeed and move our country forward. That is why it is imperative we invest in our public schools.

I was lucky enough to benefit from a strong public school system here in Syracuse at Westhill High school, then again at the Naval Academy.  I received my MBA using the GI Bill. Throughout my life, I was fortunate that America invested in my future, and we need to do the same for all Central New Yorkers.

This investment was critical to my success as an officer and citizen. I used it to lead and think critically as I was defending this country abroad and at home, from my time in Iraq to when I was at the Pentagon.

However, far too often lower-income families aren’t given the opportunity to receive a higher education and achieve the American Dream. Too often they end up crippled by college loans and vocational school debt, or worse, are never able to get into the classroom in the first place.

Every student deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential and achieve the American Dream, and it is incumbent upon us today to ensure that happens. As your representative, I pledge to do just that.

Proposals:

Invest in 21st century education

• Boost STEM education
• Provide work-based learning during high school
• Invest in apprenticeships and vocational schools
• Ensure post-secondary education gives students the choices to prepare with career-ready skills
• Giving teachers and students the training and tech needed for remote learning programs

Invest in affordability

• Increase Pell Grant eligibility
• Extend the Federal Perkins Loan Program to increase predictability for those receiving low-interest loans
• Allow those with student debt to refinance their loans at current interest rates
• Create incentives, such as federal-state-partnerships, for states to invest in higher education and increase student aid – including expanding investment support to programs like the State’s Excelsior program
• Bolster college and career counseling services that support access and completion, especially for students in underserved schools
• Help post-secondary institutions provide support services such as transportation and child care services, increase access to Adult Basic Education to put adults on a path to obtain a two or four year degree, make it easier for colleges to offer additional courses for mandatory classes, and for students to complete three-year degree programs
• Invest more in expanding the GI Bill and additional national public service programs

Invest more in underserved schools

• Increase Head Start programs to support childhood development
• Increase Title I programs to support schools with a high number of students from low-income families
• Increase investment and focus on vocational schooling
• Provide more support for students entering public service programs after school