Batts and Young also agreed with paying teachers more, though Young wasn't convinced that fewer teachers' spouses would still work outside the home as a result, as Siltman hopes. As a working woman, she said she supports either way a family decides on the working mom issue. Though the school voucher issue has not reached a critical decision point in the political process, Young said the Abilene school board should get ready. She's been hearing about the voucher controversy for 10 years, and an issue that stays that long in the public eye usually gets results, Young said. Batts countered that she goes along with the current practice of public funding going to public schools, and private schools raising their own funding.
Public funds go to public schools.
Batts and Young, who've gone to many of the same places on the campaign trail, said they found much to like on several campuses they visited. Both want to foster innovative programs such as those funded by competitive mini-grants awarded each spring in the Innovative Teaching Awards program. Batts said she'd encourage more mentoring and other volunteer help to the schools, from businesses as well as individuals. She also advocates strengthening high school graduation requirements, and keeping the curriculum abreast of the needs of the job market. Siltman said he would bring energy, ample time and know-how to the board position.