While the U.S. Presidential debates have wrapped up for 2008, voters interested in hearing more about each candidate's plans for education policy have an opportunity to watch a debate between the candidates' educational advisors on Tuesday. The debate will take place at Teachers College at Columbia University in New York City and will be webcast live by Education Week.
Due to the worsening economic situation in the United States, more and more families are having trouble finding money for college. Lenders leaving the Federal Family Education Loan Program and discontinuing private student loans have required some families to look elsewhere for financial aid, while lost income and tougher credit requirements have made it harder for other families to come up with the funds required to pay for school. While industrious students certainly can find college scholarships and grants, many voters would like to see schools and the federal government find ways to increase these sources of funding. Simplifying the financial aid application process and curbing the rising cost of tuition are other issues many would like to see the next administration tackle.
The quality of public education at the K-12 level also remains a concern for many voters. With more and more families viewing a college education as essential, adequate college preparation has become increasingly important. Yet many students require remedial education upon entering college, minorities are still are less likely to go to or finish college, and many voters are disenchanted with standardized testing and No Child Left Behind.
This debate will likely provide voters with more complete information on each campaign's education plans. If education policy is a major issue for you this election, consider tuning in to the webcast at 7 PM on Tuesday, October 21.
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