Obama announces new ed proposals

Charlie Yager — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:07:43 GMT

...a vain attempt to trump McCain-Palin ticket. Too late, the horse is already dead.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Well isn't that special? — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:09:29 GMT

Can't wait for the not-so-interested-in-change half of the McCain/ Palin national debacle respond: "Senahhter Obaaaaaama is a three-eyed Cammunist who want's to eat your grandmother!"

Obama announces new ed proposals

hopeful, boston, ma — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:09:43 GMT

i love that obama's taking a proactive approach, unlike john mccain who only continues to attack. john mccain voted against the new GI bill, something that he should surely understand and support. i have about as much hope for anything he would propose for our educational system.

Obama announces new ed proposals

voter — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:13:23 GMT

I liked the idea of posting progress notes and grades online for parents. Some parents may not be able to attend the meetings with teachers due to work. By posting progress notes and grades online parents can stat abreast with their children's progress at school. great idea.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Kathryn in Bham — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:14:32 GMT

This is precisely why it was brilliant to add the 'soccor mom' to the ticket...Any one politician usually has an area or a few areas of expertise that they deal in. John McCain's experience is in another area. Sarah Palin rounds out that ticket by focusing on the 'kitchen table' issues.

Barry did the same thing by adding an experienced foreign affairs advocate to his ticket to round out the 'wholesome family values' platform he runs on!

Come on guys...apples to apples!

Obama announces new ed proposals

Obama Is Best For America — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:14:50 GMT

Bravo, Senator.

This unique & gifted leader, Barack Obama, comes once in a lifetime.

Don't mess it up, America. VOTE for real change.

OBAMA/BIDEN '08

Obama announces new ed proposals

Hillary Democrats for McCain/Palin — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:16:34 GMT

And I suppose that after 20 years at Rev. Wright's Trinity Church, Sen. Obama would understand the love for America and the goodness of the American people.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Ralph Malph — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:17:43 GMT

finally barry is getting around to talking about that mccain "experience" and "change"...mccain has been in DC for 30 years and has little to show for it...other than some much ballyhooed campaign finance laws that were struck down by the SCOTUS and the urge to surge name one signature issue for mccain...name one that benefits you and me and not him

Obama announces new ed proposals

Jonathan Houston, TX — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:21:12 GMT

Stay on issues Obama. hit the mccain/palin on their lies and new campaign on change but stay on the issues, we can not afford four more years of this mess.

Obama announces new ed proposals

John Mehan, San Francisco, CA — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:21:17 GMT

A strong education policy is, indeed, essential for America to compete in a global economy in the 21st century. McCain does not address education.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Teacherforobama — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:22:14 GMT

As an educator it is nice to hear at least one of the candidates speak of educattion?

But how will the media tear this apart while kissing up to Palin who wants to ban books, teach creationism, and do away with most things scientific, especially if it deals with global warming and extinct animals.

You know what is an extinct animal? True journalists!

Obama announces new ed proposals

FREE AND THE BRAVE — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:23:56 GMT

He was against vouchers before he was for them, now that's change we can't believe in!

Obama announces new ed proposals

Tim, Davenport, Iowa — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:26:31 GMT

Education is the key to ending the cycle of poverty. Yet the Republicans refuse to fund it. Their attack back will be we can't afford $1 Billion a year. Obama wants to raise taxes. The FACT is that $1 Billion cost is less than three days in Iraq. Repeat, less than three days in Iraq. Not months, not years. Three dyas. Fight lies with facts.

Obama announces new ed proposals

sinkin'feelin', NY — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:26:58 GMT

Barack, where do you children go to school?

How much does it cost to attend that school?

Is their tuition paid for OR subsidised by Michelle's employer?

Did your work with Bill (the bomber) Ayers contribute to this school?

Obama announces new ed proposals

More Money — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:28:12 GMT

Barack proves once again why he's in the back pocket of the teacher union lobbyists.

Obama announces new ed proposals

real change? vote out all incumbents — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:28:18 GMT

Obama, we've heard these same old promises over and over and over from so many politicians. And, what you propose puts in more layers of government and government control of our schools. If you really want to save money and clean up Washington, you'd get rid of these layers and layers of bureaucratic BS.

As far as schools go, I'm to the point Ithink we should go to a European system. If you want to be a good student and work hard, you get put in the academic track. If not, you go in a vocational track. People keep hollering about their right to a college education. It's not a right; it's a privilege and who says I have to pay for somebody else's child to go to college? And, please, mr. Obama, look at the job trends. In the near future, we will be two job classes: the upper with more technical skills and the lower service skills. Technology will eliminate many of the middle jobs. So, why do people keep pushing kids to college when the jobs aren't going to be there? That's part of the unemployment issue now. We keep graduating people in worn out professions where there is no longer a demand. Please get real, Obama; quit promising that every child can go to college and we'll pay for it because they shouldn't all be there, for academic and economic reasons.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Michelle Zee — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:29:32 GMT

Now this a bread and butter issue for me!

My main 3 factors are the war, education, and the environment and I am more comfortable with Obama/ Biden on these issues than McPalin.

I do not trust McPalin to do anything but smear and tear down others. Not one issue other than the bridge? Well hell, I can't eat a bridge or that million dollar hockey rink which is costing Alaskans dearly.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Suz in KS — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:29:51 GMT

Education is CLEARLY the key to the future. We can't be a first rate producer as a nation with a 5th rate educational system. In inner urban setting and rural settings-higher education is the difference between a good living wage and "do you want fries with that ma'am". And with Biden's wife having a PhD in Education and Michelle Obama's committment to education, we are going to get a STRONG push from the spouses for well-funded educational issues (unlike Every Child Left Behind). Go Obama/Biden!
No way, no how, no McCain/Palin

Obama announces new ed proposals

Amy B Portland, ME — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:31:14 GMT

Yes, yes, yes.

We can start to pay for better schools by reducing the millions of dollars we send to Alaska, the second least populous state, and one of the biggest beneficiarys of federal funds.

Obama announces new ed proposals

voter — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:33:10 GMT

Obama announces new ed proposals

MIA in Miami — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:33:20 GMT

McCain hasn't said anything about education because HE DOES NOT CARE! Geesh, how many times does it have to be said?

Obama announces new ed proposals

Frank, Missouri — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:33:42 GMT

We are on our way to be a second tier nation - our education system ranks already below that. Education is key and the Bush Palin/McCain strategy of sitting things out won't cut it !

Obama announces new ed proposals

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:34:17 GMT

Obama is right. The future of this country and it's successes depend a great deal on doing a much better job of educating the next generations and allowing for more of those generations to receive a higher education. No matter what anyone says, dem or republican, this is and will remain a global economy where those countries with the best of all educational systems for their next generations will come out on top. Children who can speak more the one language and who are prepared educationally to take on the technical advances in this global economy will be the winners. If our public school system does not improve our kids will not be able to compete. Ask anyone now involved in the private sector here in the U.S. where many engineers and technicans are coming from. Not the U.S., but India, China, etc.

McCain has no clue what is needed in this country regarding the education of our youth. I have not heard a single proposal from Mccain regarding these needs. He thinks they will all be fine and have an advantage in the world if they join the military as a grunt fighting in his senseless wars. Has anyone heard any specific proposals from Palin other then all High Schools should offer a class in moose dressing?

If those females now star-struck with Palin really care about family and their kids they better think twice and look at Obama's proposals to improve the educational opportunities for their young kids. Otherwise you will be sending all your kids to Alaska to take a moose hunting class. That should make them competitive in the world today.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Jonathan Houston, TX — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:36:09 GMT

Obama and Biden are the true agents of change and i hope that America sees it. I teach an accounting course at the local college, i have s tudent that has been a teacher for 20 years that says that as a single parent that she can not afford to be a teacher and wanted to purse a career in corporate america. this is what Obama meant when he says that mccain just does not get it. should a professional educated middle class american leave a career they love becuse in this economy they can not make ends meet.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Elmer — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:37:24 GMT

Obama thinks the debates will do the trick but in the meantime he is taking blows below the belt. To stir up his donors he needs to deliver a few. The education punch was a start. Forget Palin and expose McCain for what he is.

Obama announces new ed proposals

PAMama4Obama — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:37:37 GMT

Obama is on target!

Keep hammering home these domestic issues, Barack--education, economy, energy, health care--all the kitchen table issues so important to the lives of everyday Americans.

Drive it home, show the stark contrasts between you/Joe and McSame's camp. The choice is clear--only YOU can bring the right change, the change we need.

I would keep repeating the line you stated last night in your interview with Keith O.: It may be true that Republicans are smart campaigners, but they govern badly.

What will people have at the end of the day, when the campaign has ended, the confetti is swept away, the ballons have deflated, and the snarky lines have all be said, if they choose McCain? More of the same...but to a worse degree.

The deficit will continue to spiral out of control, there will be no relief from the housing crunch, the job losses, the economic woes, the health care crisis, the education problems, the energy/global warming perils.

A vote for McCain will squander any chance at real change. A vote for you will be an investment in America's Promise and a brighter future!

We--and especially our children and our planet--deserve a fighting chance, and you/Joe are the only ones ready for a fight of this magnitude!

Obama announces new ed proposals

twocanpete — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:38:25 GMT

http://twocanpete.blogspot.com/
Taking 1 of the 550 billion dollars we have sunk in Iraq and spending it here on education sounds like the least we could do.

Obama announces new ed proposals

If You're Overtaxed - Thank a Teacher — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:38:31 GMT

Obama announces new ed proposals

Michelle Zee — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:38:32 GMT

Barack proves once again why he's in the back pocket of the teacher union lobbyists.
More Money (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:28 PM)
____________
This whomever is why we need a good education system!

This is about the future of our children. With the great education opportunities our children will receive will allow them to greatly contribute back to our society.

I guess the republicans can care less about education or they like the idea of our children being substandard and receiving a substandard education.

Our current president..."Even you can make C's and be the next president!"

Ah...this may be true with him, but I want more our children of this nation to excel beyond boundaries and exceed each standard.

Why should we vote for McPalin and have our children recieve the bronze star, when we can vote O'Biden and our children can fairly have the chance to get the GOLD????!!!!!

I'll take my chances with the GOLD TEAM!

Obama announces new ed proposals

Kathryn in Bham — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:39:32 GMT

real change?
I absolutely agree with you in that the push towards education is a)important and b)not for all. And it most certainly edges out what is left of a collapsing middle class that we have in this country...which will create a larger divide between the wealthy and the poor and create a much greater burden on the government in terms of assistance programs for families who cannot make ends meet...Is he trying to create a greater divide in order to take MORE from the rich and give it to an even larger poor? I don't understand why we don't see the need to push blue collar middle class jobs that we can be proud to hold and that can create a good life for the next generation.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Ex-Teacher — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:43:11 GMT

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL - Obama is right.

No he's not. Throwing good money after bad has been a core of Democratic dogma for generations. The education system is full of bloat, poor teachers, and choice will never be made an option so it will never improve. Obama is just another liberal stooge whose job it is to inflate the money going to schools so they in turn can give millions back to him in the form of campaign contributions. The teachers and Obama couldn't care less about the quality of education given to the kids.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Michelle Zee — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:44:11 GMT

Kathryn in Bham (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:14 PM)

Oh no...apples to lemons I would say!

What is McCain doing for education is the question?

All I have heard is Palin talking about the bridge...that not bread and butter; that's a bold face lie.

McPalin has not said one thing about education...oh but that bridge, I have heard plenty! Enough already!

Obama announces new ed proposals

GP Chicago — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:44:14 GMT

Barack proves once again why he's in the back pocket of the teacher union lobbyists.
More Money (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:28 PM)
----------------------------------------------------

Tell that to the 88% of Washington D.C. 8th Graders who can't read. Wonder why when you get an exam that there are mostly Indian, and Far East Doctors taking care of people? Wonder why we are buying so many cars from Japan? It's not the manufacturing...it's the engineering. And guess where they go to school...mostly in the U.S.

He's talking about promoting education, and making it available to all...and leveling the playing field.

Let's start working toward a solution instead of fingerpointing.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Eric,Tempe, Az — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:44:27 GMT

Im sure most of these people fighting Obama on education are the ones who didn't make it. Education is what keeps America moving forward and it is obvious we can do much better. Why not improve on something that any teacher can tell you is not working.
Keep fighting Obama, the youth vote is going to surprise everyone come this election. The same people the gallop polls do not count because most of us don't even have land lines anymore. Change is coming.

Obama announces new ed proposals

real change? vote out all incumbents — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:44:32 GMT

In his speech, Obama spoke about paying for his proposals by winding down the war in Iraq.
888888888888

BS Obama. You're going to send them all to Afghanistan so there will be no savings.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Chris, MI — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:44:50 GMT

real change?, most public schools already have both academic and vocational tracks; at least those which aren't woefully underfunded. Just because that system isn't federally mandated or institutionalized across the board doesn't mean it isn't there. The intent is to provide equal opportunity, not mandate homogenous results.

The responses from McCain supporters on this topic prove only one thing: you may love your country, but you sure seem to hate the people living in it.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Obama Does Not Have Answers — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:47:49 GMT

This is about the future of our children. - Michelle Zee

Back to this old song and dance I see. The education system has plenty of money. In fact, it needs to have less money, and more competition. Teachers have gotten so used to the gravey train they are on that they refuse to get better. The only thing they know is to use the kids as leverage to get more money out of hard working Americans pockets into put it into their own pockets.

Obama announces new ed proposals

diffran summerville — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:48:16 GMT

Name one public school teacher that make tons of money?

Obama announces new ed proposals

GP Chicago — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:49:23 GMT

Obama announces new ed proposals

A-duh! — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:49:58 GMT

Hmm...
Magna Cum Laude at Harvard Law and President of Harvard Law Review

vs.

894 out of 899 at the US Naval Academy

Tough choice...NOT!

Obama announces new ed proposals

real change? vote out all incumbents — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:50:30 GMT

Wow, what a shocker, Obama promising yet another billion dollar proposal. And yet another rendition of 'poor little Barry, son of a poor white woman, who rose like a phoenix from the ashes to save the world.'
voter (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:33 PM)

888888888888888
correct, voter. Spend, spend, spend. And, where will the money come from? Even his proposed taxes on the rich, combined with the cuts for the lower economic class, doesn't give enough money to cover everything he has promised. WAKE UP, OBAMATOTS. THERE IS NO FREE LUNCH! He's not going to "give" you a damn thing. YOU will pay for everything you get one way or another.

Obama announces new ed proposals

real change? vote out all incumbents — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:54:27 GMT

If Obama wants to lower the cost of higher education, he'd be looking into their practices. Since the 70s, the cost of higher ed has outstripped inflation every year. Why? Some is because of government-imposed requirements. Some is because colleges/universities think they have to build "mini cities" for the students, to serve their every whim and need. Some is because of pure glut. Having worked in higher ed for 16 yrs I can say I've nevre seen such waste in my life!

When Obama talks about creating all these new jobs, who will fill those jobs? They won't be high level paying jobs; they'll be lower level hourly wage jobs. At the same time, he's promising college for all. So, what do you think that will do to unemployment? People with a college degree aren't going to work in these jobs.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Arnie Dunkin — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:55:39 GMT

He's talking about promoting education, and making it available to all...and leveling the playing field.

Let's start working toward a solution instead of fingerpointing.

GP Chicago (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:44 PM)
~~~~~~~~~~~

Lets see what kind of solutions Obama brought to the schools of Chicago. It appears, using Obama's ideas, that Chicago schools are one of the worst in the country. Now Obama wants to do for the country waht he did for Chicago.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Becky — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:56:22 GMT

I'm old enough to remember when the US was the leader in education, technology, and advancement. Now we have a generation that cannot correctly compose a letter. It's a national disgrace. I want my grandchildren to be able to take pride in their nation as the leader in innovation.

Bush has given us the largest government this country has ever known. Worst of all, it is wasteful and ineffective. We must get the focus off interventionism and nation building and put it back here at home where our problems are real and looming large. Educate our children first, before sending trillions of dollars abroad. Rebuild our infrastructure before propping up questionable governments in sovereign foreign states. It's time to prioritize, people. We simply cannot afford another four years of this insanity.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Ron Indiana — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:56:26 GMT

Obama is sticking to the issues. This needs to be an issues election, not lies and personal smears. I confess that two days ago I was getting a bit nervous about the poll numbers. But today...less so. The country needs a President who is focused on issues, not one-line zingers. His position papers are many: Race, Education, the War, the Economy, Energy, Farming issues. You may not agree with his positions so don't vote for him. But this is the high-road alternative to lies, lies, and more lies.

The Obama team beat out Hillary and will beat out McOld. Chuck Todd--you underestimate Barack's debating skills. He is thinking while he is talking. McOld is talking without thinking.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Status Quo — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:56:28 GMT

Real change would be for Obama to support vouchers. Guess, what, he doesn't.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Let's get back to the issues! — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:57:06 GMT

Obama announces new ed proposals

Independent Texan — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:57:11 GMT

teaching the Koran and anti american resenment is not what I would call education reform !

Obama announces new ed proposals

Brian M De — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:57:46 GMT

Obama Does Not Have Answers (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:47 PM)

And McCain has even less.

Obama announces new ed proposals

John Bohlman — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:58:58 GMT

The children are our future, we should not be putting an enormous debt on them by not paying for an illegal war.
If you truly believe this Iraq war was necessary then we as Americans should pay for it! We are borrowing money from China to fund it. There is a hidden tax when the dollar shrinks 30%, everything costs more. Do you think having the national debt going from 5 trillion to 10 trillion in 7+ years is not going to affect our children and grandchildren? Go ahead, think about it, times up,is it still a good idea to spend 10 billion a month in Iraq? We have got to face facts, we better get better leadership than we have been getting. If we choose more of the same then we truly will be walking down a very steep,narrow path with fewer good options. Time to do your homework America before we go down that path! GO OBAMA

Obama announces new ed proposals

Rodney Hopper, Waxahachie, TX — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:59:00 GMT

I think education really puts it into perspective.

One of the main reasons I'm voting for Barack Obama is for the simple fact that my daughter deserves better than to grow up with four more years of failed policies.

John McCain's not doing one thing for education and I don't know that he ever has.

Obama's offering to exchange $4,000 for education for community service. McCain voted AGAINST the GI Bill that would increase education among veterans.

WAKE UP PEOPLE, the senseless attacks and name calling from Palin and McCain do nothing but help ensure their place in power. It does NOTHING for Americans. They have no plan, they have nothing but semi-clever one-liners, and honestly, they're not that clever.

http://www.rodneyhopper.com

Obama announces new ed proposals

Ty, WI — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:59:24 GMT

My soon to be wife is an instructor at a top ranked university in Chicago...she gets paid under 50K a year to teach Mathematics. She was mentored by someone who is considered top 5 in the world for mathematics. She has to pay her own insurance, and it cost her 40K in student loans a year to get this education. We should have them paid off in ohhh 10 years.

You my friend are an Idiot.
GP Chicago (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:49 PM)

Appears your soon to be wife is the idiot. She should have gone to work in the Chicago school district, that's where the money is. Easy work too, the kids don't even bother to show up.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Pete, St Augustine, FL — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:59:31 GMT

I believe that the United States currently ranks 19th in the world in secondary education graduation rates...and first in the world in people in prison (per capita, of course). Does anybody see an issue with our priorities?

Yes, it is true that not all people will go to college, but that's not Obama's goal; rather, he is interested in giving everybody the OPPORTUNITY to go to college and develop the skills necessary to compete in the 21st century.

There are many problems facing our country on the domestic front, and education is but one of those problems. We should be ashamed of ourselves, with the resources we have in this country, that we rank so low in the world in regards to quality education for our citizens.

Oh, and by the way, I used to teach but couldn't afford to repay my student loans, so I sold out for a job in corporate America to pay off the loans. If you think that teachers are making massive salaries off the backs of the taxpayers, you are living a delusional existence.

Obama announces new ed proposals

CHANGE IS POSSIBLE — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:00:31 GMT

TO: "The only thing that has gotten better is that teachers and administrators are making six figure salaries, working 35 weeks a year, and retiring after 20 years of service with fat pensions."

Maybe in your school in your state, but in my kids' middle school in Queens NY, the principal initially used HIS OWN money to put in some laptops so kids could get more than an hour a week on a computer. Many teachers routinely worked 1-2 hours a day in the afterschool tutoring programs, for which they were not paid a penny extra salary - which enabled my daughter, as well as many other kids to not only climb out of the failure ranks, but onto the honor rolls. Most teachers provide email sites and addresses for parents and correspond regarding homework and progress reports, so you do not have to take time off from work.
The school collectively has done so well, thanks to these initiatives and others implemented by NYC Mayor Bloomberg - that the school has received a grant from Apple Computer - a grant which was merit based on the chool's cumulative test scores - not any other sort of 'entitlement' - and every one of the more than 1000 students now has daily use of their own laptops and the test scores are among the highest in the city.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Sherri, Charleston WV — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:02:48 GMT

Hey real change---
That's right,there is no free lunch.
So let's quit giving one to the richest 3% of America, Cindy McCain included
So let's quit poung money down the Iraqi pit, let them spend some of their 1,000,000,000+ US Bank surplus
So let's invest our taxz dollars at home, on bridges, infrastructure, EDUCATION, helping the poor
So let's stop the Unamerican, Unpatriotic, Uncouth, Uninspired, Unnecessary BULLSH!T from the far right wing that thinks Bush was put in the WH by God
So let's say ENOUGH

Obama announces new ed proposals

real change? vote out all incumbents — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:02:56 GMT

We've been throwing money at education for decades and it doesn't seem to improve. The only thing that has gotten better is that teachers and administrators are making six figure salaries, working 35 weeks a year, and retiring after 20 years of service with fat pensions.
If You're Overtaxed - Thank a Teacher (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:38 PM)
----------------------------------------------------

My soon to be wife is an instructor at a top ranked university in Chicago...she gets paid under 50K a year to teach Mathematics. She was mentored by someone who is considered top 5 in the world for mathematics. She has to pay her own insurance, and it cost her 40K in student loans a year to get this education. We should have them paid off in ohhh 10 years.

You my friend are an Idiot.
GP Chicago (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:49 PM)

8888888888
GP, what you forgot to say was your wife MADE A CHOICE FOR THAT PROFESSION. Any professor knows they won't get rich teaching. Did she forget to check out the salaries in her field? Who promised her she'd make more? Does she work full-time or choose to work part time? Having worked at 3 higher ed institutions, it would be very unusual that a full time staff person would not have their insurance paid. Nobody made your wife borrow $40K; that was a choice. Why did she need $40K? Many times people borrow every dime they can get so they don't have to work while in school. Or, they leave a good job and borrow to the max to "maintain their lifestyle." I'm tired of the poor me crap and that somehow people think they should get a college education for free. Education is NOT a right, it is a privilege.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Manassas, VA — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:05:12 GMT

Bravo Barack. I am amazed at the negative comments here because we as a nation should want to provide more money for our educational institutions. Our children are falling farther and farther behind other ethnic groups even within our country. Other nations send their children to the US to receive Harvard, Princeton and Yale educations yet many of our children can not attend a community college because the the public school systems are failing especially in the inner cities. I get that many priviledged americans live in the suburbs and their children receive a good education but the urban areas where there are large black/hispanic populations are struggling, suffering and the drop out/expulsion/failure rates are ludicrous! We have to start right here right now for the sake of our future. The United States of America is very divided in this as well as many other areas and we should want that to change. I am an African American Woman educated in public schools in the State of Tennesse, Memphis to be exact. Those same schools that helped me succeed have deteriorated significantly. We need to fix this now, not 4 years from now ---- A Change has GOT to Come! Obama/Biden and Clinton thereafter not another Republican in office until this mess is fixed!

Obama announces new ed proposals

Palin wannna cracker? — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:05:36 GMT

Can any of you right wingers say something truthful, for a change?

"all teachers make 6 figures and retire early."
"Obama wants to teach the Koran in school."
He's responsible for Afgahnistan??!

If it weren't for lies, the right wing would be mute, and what a wonderful world it would be.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Susan in SC — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:06:31 GMT

AWESOME! You do not strengthen pubic education by putting the money into vouchers. Public Ed is NOT like corporate america - the incentive to do better does not happen when the business goes elsewhere. Public Ed needs $$$ and stonger leadship. To quote a TV show that actually understood:

"Education is the silver bullet. Education is everything. We don't need little changes. We need gigantic revolutionary changes. Schools should be palaces. Competition for the best teachers should be fierce. They should be getting six-figure salaries. Schools should be incredibly expensive for government and absolutely free of charge for its citizens, just like national defense. That is my position. I just haven't figured out how to do it yet."
(Sam Seaborn West Wing)

Think about it…. It is not just about your child today, it is about all children and future of our country!!!!

How can we expect you understand the importance of public education when you graduted in the bottom 5% from The U.S. Naval Academy?

How can we expect you understand the importance of public education when you don't know how to use a computer in the 21st century.

Pulic Education is the silver bullet & HAS to be improved upon. Pouring the money into vouchers instead of the schoos is only going to hurt the process, the public schools, and the millions & millions of students and families who rely on our public schools for education.

Obama announces new ed proposals

GP Chicago — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:06:58 GMT

Lets see what kind of solutions Obama brought to the schools of Chicago. It appears, using Obama's ideas, that Chicago schools are one of the worst in the country. Now Obama wants to do for the country waht he did for Chicago.

Arnie Dunkin (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:55 PM)
-----------------------------------------------------

The University is a private institution, they don't get funding from Chicago

and the New Trier School system in Illinois (north chicago) is one of the top public schools in the nation.

Obama announces new ed proposals

el shad, river of america — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:08:18 GMT

Heard this for the last 30 years. Let's go fishing for votes by making promise after promise for more spending and bigger government. It is amazing how many bite and get hooked.

Obama announces new ed proposals

sara, az — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:08:24 GMT

As an academic, I'm increasingly convinced that one of the main reasons the American electorate is so stupid is because our public education system has failed so many people. Unfortunately, the dumbing down of America and teaching to the mean has given us 8 yrs of Bush and I fear the utter stupidity of Americans will give us more.

WHY have we become so anti-intellectual? Why do you WANT people in power to be just like you?

Almost everyone in higher education that I know wants their president to smarter than they are. Why don't you?

Obama announces new ed proposals

Ruth From Washington State — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:08:36 GMT

I am disgusted by the attitudes of some posters here. I am pleased to see Obama opening up a new avenue of discussion. Education should be one of the key issues of this election, and all some of you are doing is using this article as a springboard for your negativity. McCain hasn't even brought up education, although I suppose he will now, in keeping with his ability to only attack, not offer us any real solutions.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Susan in SC — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:10:11 GMT

To Status Quo - to support vouchers is to undermind everything about public education. Voucher proponents claim that vouchers will put the power of decision into parents hands. What do vouchers do to your local public shools? What about parents who themselves are not educated enough to understand school choice, assist with homework, and help their child move beyond where the family is stuck? Public education has to be improved to meet the needs of the masses, not just those smart enough/lucky enough to have options. Improvement of public education is the key to the future of this country!!

Obama announces new ed proposals

sbv creswell, oregon — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:10:18 GMT

if anyone has read the wonderful book by david mccullough, "john adams," they will know either by this or a study of our founding fathers, why it was argued for a public educational system for all. adams, both abigail and john along with jefferson, realized an educated citizens was the strongest defense for our country's democracy and continued success.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Frank — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:13:11 GMT

You see, every sane person would vote for Obama instead of continuing the course because the Repubs throw in some shiny objects. But we are not very educated as a nation ... that's what the repubs would have to fear - but no worry.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Ruth From Washington State — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:13:23 GMT

I appreciate Obama focusing on the issues while the GOP focuses on lies and one-liners. Education is the key to our future. Neither McCain or Palin seem to value education much. I hope Obama isn't over-estimating the American voter.
_____________________________________

Exactly. It is a sad thing when a candidate who is intelligent and well-spoken is constantly admonished to 'dumb down' his answers for fear of losing his audience. The prevalence of low-information voters out there is reason enough to elevate the importance of education.

Obama announces new ed proposals

real change? vote out all incumbents — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:13:42 GMT

The responses from McCain supporters on this topic prove only one thing: you may love your country, but you sure seem to hate the people living in it.
Chris, MI (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:44 PM)
888888888888
You're wrong, Chris. I happen to love people and work in helping profession. I believe in access and opportunity to higher ed. The problem is that Obama is promising everybody can go; not everybody SHOULD go. Our economy and the job fields are changing. Trends show the workfoce will be divided into a technical side and a service side; there will no longer be the "middle" jobs where many college-educated people find themselves.

For 20 years, I've watched borrowing limits for students increase; people borrow every dime they can. The US govt is creating a nation of debtors! But, what these people fail to see is that many of the traditional jobs are on the decline; there is no demand. That's why so many college students graduate and have no job but a mountain of debt. I believe that education makes us better people as we increase our world view. However, higher education does not equal high salary or even a job. People must avail themselves of info when choosing a profession; they must realize college doesn't guarantee you lots of money. If you don't want student loan debt, then go to school part time and work part time; it might take longer but you won't have the debt.

Obama announces new ed proposals

DV, CA — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:16:01 GMT

teaching the Koran and anti american resenment is not what I would call education reform !
Independent Texan (
**********

See, this is why people need more than a 9th grade education. They wont sound like ignorant hicks with less than 2 brain cells to rub together. Repubs have managed to generate quite enough anti american resentmet over the past 8 years, at home and abroad. Not our fault you are too blind and dumb to notice.

Obama announces new ed proposals

John Bohlman — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:16:02 GMT

Hope America gets a better education than McCain,894 out of 899 at Annapolis. We paid for his education and this is what we got. Maybe we should put a smart person in the white house, what do you think? Smart (OBAMA) or not smart (MCCAIN)
Lets try smart this time, we've tried not smart(BUSH)
GO OBAMA!!!!!

Obama announces new ed proposals

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:17:49 GMT

Ex-Teacher (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:43 PM) - The teachers and Obama couldn't care less about the quality of education given to the kids.

Ex:

Here is your first problem, "attitude". With an attitude like yours, "teachers couldn't care less about the quality of education given to kids", no wonder you are an ex-teacher. Hundreds and perhaps thousands of people today who are successful all have a story of a teacher who cared enough about them to keep them straight and who provided them with a good educational experience. Too bad none of those you taught can apparently say the same.

Your's is one more example of not listening to all that Obama has to say about our kids and their education. He has also challenged parents to turn off the video games and to read with their kids. He has challenged fathers (specifically Black fathers) to get more involved in the proper upbringing and education of their children. His is a universal approach to improvuing the education of our kids, not just paying higher teacher salaries although you do get what you pay for, don't you? Makes me wonder why it is a person can become a multi-millionaire by owning a Beer Distributorship and adding to the drinking problem in this country while a teacher who holds this country's future in their hands can barely get by from month to month on their incomes.

I know many bright students who can't afford college because they come from middle class families who earn just enough where the kid can't get a break on college loans or tuition assitance yet the parents don't make enough to fund their college costs. These kids need help. They are stuck in the middle and many fall through the cracks. College campuses are populated by minorities getting breaks and kids from wealthy families going from class to class in their Audis. Some middle class kids may be seen on a college campus but if so they are the ones pulling maintenance duty on campus or if able to get a college loan looking ahead to the day they have to use their earning power to pay back thousands in student loans.

Are some monies lost and wasted in the educational system? I'm sure there is. But where would you rather have some waste? In our educational system while also making some improved opportunities for our kids or in Iraq where billions are being lost and wasted (millions not even accounted for) in a policing action where the country we invaded (Iraq) is hauling in more oil money then what we in the U.S. are willing to put into our kids educational futures.

I would rather spend millions on education even if only a few kids take advantage and benefit versus spending one more dime in Iraq.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Susan in SC — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:19:31 GMT

To quote the uninformed: "We've been throwing money at education for decades and it doesn't seem to improve. The only thing that has gotten better is that teachers and administrators are making six figure salaries, working 35 weeks a year, and retiring after 20 years of service with fat pensions.
If You're Overtaxed - Thank a Teacher" (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:38 PM)

My son graduated from college in May and is a first year teacher. You don't personally know many teachers do you? My son works in one of the top paying counties in the state and makes $35K a year (after paying $18K A YEAR for a college degree). I have to agree - you are an idiot!

Obama announces new ed proposals

Elizabeth, Orlando — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:20:17 GMT

I am amazed at the Republicans who condemn Obama for trying yet do not demand that their party at least pretend to have some sort of plan to help them and their children.

When this is said and over, Obama have a job, his wife has a job, and his children will have the best education possible. But you my friends will have nothing….Go real

Obama announces new ed proposals

Rick, NC — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:23:28 GMT

There is no proof paying teachers more or spending more on education pays for itself...nada

40 years ago we spent 1/3 per capita for education as now...I can still run rings around most recent graduates so obviously it wasn't money that made the difference...

Obama announces new ed proposals

L.S. MN — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:26:39 GMT

It is absolutely true, we're going to end up paying for all of this......at least we're for paying for something we (as a country) desperately need.

Obama/Biden

Obama announces new ed proposals

Ted, Mid Michigan — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:31:41 GMT

Barack proves once again why he's in the back pocket of the teacher union lobbyists.
More Money (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:28 PM)

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Because ONLY lobbiests care about the education of future generations? DOLT! Improving the American education is an investment, that will return, many times over, any incurred costs in domestic output. if we don't fund education, we have a stupid populace, drop further behind the changing economy, and become a once great, now defunct nation.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Kira, Utah — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:32:16 GMT

If You're Overtaxed - Thank a Teacher: are you serious? Do you know any teachers? 6 of my in-laws and my mother are all teachers. None of them get paid 6 figures. Get a grip- you have no idea what you are talking about.

Status Quo- you should do more research. Vouchers don't help those who need it. They just make priviledge easier for those with money. If you want your kid to go to a school other than the one in your district, try open enrolling or a charter school. If you want your kid to go to private school, pay for it yourself.

In Utah (a conservative Republican state), the governor tried to legislate vouchers without a public vote on it. The people here were outraged, so it was put on the ballot. It lost by a huge margin because both republicans and democrats realized how much it would damage the already struggling public schools!

Think about it. Here, the voucher would have been for $3000. It costs upwards of $10,000 to go to private school. How would a middle to low income family who's child might need extra help make up the difference?!

NO! What we need is better public schools. Obama is right. Money to schools is necessary, not pork barrel.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Cincinnati girl — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:38:58 GMT

It's about time someone addressed this issue. How you can think about our future as a country if we are not effectively grooming a new generation of leaders. And contrary to popular belief, our public education system has to be rehabbed! There simply isn't enough capacity for private and charter schools to educate every student. More importantly, going back to his community organizer roots and encouraging people to get involved in community/public service. This at least gets people involved in rebuilding communities and for some, will help students establish where they truly want to focus their higher education. Go get 'em Barack!!

Obama announces new ed proposals

High school teacher — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:39:45 GMT

As a public high school teacher, I am on the front lines, and I'd like to make a few observations.

First, many of the problems our educational system are facing has little to do with what happens in the school. Our children are not motivated to learn and that can be attributed to home and societal issues. We are constantly dealing with students who have little supervision, who spend hours in activities that do not promote learning, and who have picked up the idea that teachers and administrators are stupid (look at the tv programming aimed at pre-teens and teens). As long as society gives our teens the idea that anything goes and permission to dress any way they want and to say anything they want, their focus will not be on earning a good education.

Second, many schools in the world are much poorer than our schools, but their students value education and work hard to get it. I don't think money is an indicator of success. Also, with NCLB, teachers have required to participate in graduate education and professional development to remain certified. Along with many of my peers, I know and use research-based learning strategies; however, many of my students are not willing to extend the effort and work necessary to really learn.

Finally, I want to clear up a couple of things. First, many schools, including mine, already post grades online. I am expected to post my grades once a week and to contact parents about any problems. Second, twenty years does not bring a big retirement. Most teachers retire at somewhere between thirty and thirty-five years in order to receive the most funds.

I really don't know that the federal government can have much impact on the level of learning our students achieve. Education is a local issue. When parents and communities realize the importance of our children learning and push their students to work hard and succeed, then perhaps we will see some dramatic improvement. It's easy to put the responsibility on Washington, but our communities and families are the ones who have the power to change our educational outcomes.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Joseph, Chicago, IL — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:40:47 GMT

Obama says that he will give money to school and those education programs but we all know that he will give money to some burcrat where the money will be tied up and in the end the money to school that really need it wont get ENOUGH .....

Atleast McCain says that he will give money to the schools THAT NEED IT and not give money to the school that really dont. and for the liberals that think that he doesnt have a education plan .... ummmmm first NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND is still there in the government and next to that there is something called school vouchers ... that one that democrat always shut down. I WANT TO SEND MY CHILDREN TO THE SCHOOL I BELIEVE IS A GOOD SCHOOL NOT THE "BIG GOVERNMENT" TO TELL ME WHERE MY CHILDREN WILL HAVE TO GO FOR SCHOOL!!!!! and i have to tell you the truth not only the "rich" go to private schools. There are alot of middle class, low middle class, and poor familes that struggle to put their children in private schools because at cases they are the BETTER EDUCATION ...

I would rather spend all my money on a private school that might lead my child to Harvard instead of putting my child in a poor public school that might lead my child to community college.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Dennis Dallas — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:48:17 GMT

Tell that to the 88% of Washington D.C. 8th Graders who can't read.

You can't make these kids learn. They would much rather go sell drugs, get on welfare or commit crimes. Our education system is fine. We teach more high level people and any other country. What's wrong with the education system isn't the teachers or scholls, it's the students and parnets ! Why learn and become responcible adults when you can not work and draw welfare ! thats what is being taught at home. People like Obama just encourage it by increasing welfare and handouts to those who don't want to get a job,and stay in school. Obama wants to make it too easy for these type people. I'm a FIRM believer in..

Those who do - get and those who don't - won't.
This is not a socialist country where everyone gets the same. I work hard and I deserve to have my money for me, not pouring into some lame ass that doesn't do a damn thing.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Bryan Ditman — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:52:49 GMT

Let's look at Obama's real record on education.In Chicago,he was Chairman of the board (yes that Bill Ayers guy was involved,but Obama denies even knowing him at this point) of the Annenberg Challenge.The project was a failure,unable to raise scores and grad rates even with 150 million spent on 50 target schools in 3 years.Most of the money went to "Political" purposes, not to classrooms or for additional tutors.Most of it was to battle to movement to modify or eliminate the failed Local School Councils,which were like mini school boards.The final report is here: http://www.eric.ed.gov/ERICDocs/data/ericdocs2sql/content_storage_01/0000019b/80/1b/8c/e1.pdf
Obama's scandalous history on education reform is open to anyone whop wants to find it.Out and out failure, really.

Obama announces new ed proposals

jim Sauquoit New York — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:53:48 GMT

Obama has no record on education leadership. Just like the rest of his resume.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Audrey Vancouver — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:58:41 GMT

Is it just me or what - I heard most of Sen. Obama's speech on education; it was intelligent, thoughtful, knowledgeable and delivered with an even keel. Then your station covered Ms. Palin's speech(more like a screech) and she was still selling her lies and had nothing substantial to say about any issue. What am I missing here. I still think republican hacks (and I include the MSM in this) are fudging the "polls" to give the appearance that this race is close (easier to hack the voting machines that way). Mark my words people, George Bush (Republican party) is not giving up power and if they can bs the public with smoke, mirrors, shock and awe - they will.

Audrey

Obama announces new ed proposals

John Gould, New Holland, PA — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:58:57 GMT

There are so many complex issues facing this country and our next generation. Read Sachs’ Common Wealth or Friedman’s Hot, Flat, and Crowded to get a sense of these issues facing our next generation. Education is one of the key components in finding solutions to these issues. At least Mr. Obama sees education as part of our political dialogue. My only concern is that he is using an “old” model of thinking about what education should look like in this emerging global and digital economy. We should not be focused on getting our children to college, but to become life-long learners of which college is an option. Throwing money at an old model doesn’t work! Allocating money to new forms of education, which includes public choice, does if it is driven by inspired thought. Obama brings that to the table. McCain/Palin brings creationism as a viable concept to solve the complexity we are all facing. Think about that as a real choice for the future of our country and it leadership in the world.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Independent texan — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:59:44 GMT

See, this is why people need more than a 9th grade education. They wont sound like ignorant hicks with less than 2 brain cells to rub together. Repubs have managed to generate quite enough anti american resentmet over the past 8 years, at home and abroad. Not our fault you are too blind and dumb to notice.
DV, CA

What ?/ Are you going to also deny that he is Muslim ? His own family in Africa says he is and pratices it.

Obama's Family Says "Yes He Is!"
Israel Insider
Malik Obama confirm s his half-brother Barack grew up a Muslim . Obama's Muslim Heritage is a given to his family.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Does spend more = better? — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 18:02:20 GMT

Spending more money on education. Boy, that's a "new" idea. Haven't we done this year after year without success? Liberals are intent on shoving the NEA (National Education Assoc) down our country's throat. Why? Becauase by and large they adhere to liberal, humanistic idealogy and goals....sex education that shoves condoms and homosexuality down our kid's throats, promotion of the unscientific evolution while having a paranoia of Creation, rejecting the proven reading method of phonics because it threatens their own unproven techniques.

Obama announces new ed proposals

phil brown MCDonough — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 18:02:59 GMT

Come on Brian. He is coming up with ideas. What is McCain doing beside protecting his litter girl. He has not given any real solutions to getting us out of this mess. He doesn't even feel a sense of remorse for being part of the problem. Come on get your head out of your ect....

Obama announces new ed proposals

Jim , Rockville MD — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 18:11:36 GMT

Obama has real proposals to deal with everyday problems. McCain only solution if to resurrect the voucher issue as a favor to the right-wing. Yea, that's one that will help those who can't afford to go to private school even with a voucher

Obama announces new ed proposals

Judy in AZ — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 18:29:36 GMT

Obama had little to do with the schools in Chicago, and McCain's state was 49th in funding for education.

McCain is for vouchers. Talk about elitist! The student with special needs is turned away from the private school. They don't have to take any special needs students. They can pick the cream of the crop because they are PRIVATE. Public schools on the other hand, must accept every student who shows up at their door. That would be because they are PUBLIC. So now, with vouchers, the public schools will become a place for special needs students, and the private schools will have the cream of the crop, and they don't even have to be ACCOUNTABLE. That would be because they are PRIVATE, and don't have to live by No Child Left Behind, which is a mandate only to public schools.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Diana Omaha, NE — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 18:35:08 GMT

Look at Palin's educational successes so far; lets teach abstinence and now she has a pregnant daughter. Could there be a louder 'F' on her report card??? Go Obama!!!!!!!!!

Obama announces new ed proposals

Jerry, Cleveland, OH — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 18:36:23 GMT

"My soon to be wife is an instructor at a top ranked university in Chicago...she gets paid under 50K a year to teach Mathematics. She was mentored by someone who is considered top 5 in the world for mathematics. She has to pay her own insurance, and it cost her 40K in student loans a year to get this education. We should have them paid off in ohhh 10 years."

So how could your soon-to-be wife have been mentored by someone who is considered top 5 in the world for mathematics if we have the horrible education system you say we do? As for Obama's plan, your wife would have received a $4,000 college tuition tax credit, in exchange for public service. So she would now be saddled with 36K in student loans a year instead of 40K and would be earning $0 in public service in exchange for the generous Obama $4,000 college tuition tax credit. Oh yea, big help. Stop whining you simple little twit. Your soon-to-be wife is starting in her career (what is she? 24-25) making 50K a year working as an instructor 3 days a week/5 hours a day. In a few years she will be earning 6 figures and hopefully smarten up and dump your sorry arse.

You my friend are an idiot.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Jim, Mesa, AZ — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 18:42:36 GMT

He was against vouchers before he was for them, now that's change we can't believe in!
FREE AND THE BRAVE (Sent Tuesday, September 09, 2008 12:23 PM)

---------------------------------------

Where in the world did you get that he was for vouchers. If you knew anything about the educational system you would know that charter schools are funded in the same way public schools are. They are not private institutions. btw, studies have shown that overall charter schools and private schools fair no better than public schools when children from similar backgrounds are compared. The fact of the matter is if parents don't get involved in their kids education then that child will fail no matter where they attend school.

Here are some links to back up this claim:

http://www.physorg.com/news130768489.html

http://www.allacademic.com/meta/p_mla_apa_research_citation/1/0/8/4/7/p108479_index.html

Obama announces new ed proposals

D Iowan, Marion, IA — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 18:48:38 GMT

My wife and I are both teachers - she in her 40's and me in my 50's - and we both have second jobs just to make ends meet as we raise our 6 adopted children. We have not taken a vacation in 4 years. I don't really care about a pay raise, but I do hope to see an administration which truly values education as the key to a better future for our children. I believe Senator Obama has the vision for that future.

We do not need a woman who wants to ban books and teach creationism leading our nation.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Lee B.- Austin, TX — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 18:48:51 GMT

Does ayone else notice that all the dissenters have to say is "where's the money going to come from" or "our govt. is already too big and Obama wants to make it bigger"....Bush's administration made this government bigger and more intrusive than any we could imagine. Where are the McCain people who throw out whatever HIS plans are for education? healthcare? the economy? Even when he says he bucks the party line...on energy...he has NO Plans except the Republican conventional wisdom of drill, drill, drill. You don't see anyone rebutting Obama's plans with McCain's because McCain has no plans. If the general "dem strategy" is to propose plans without having paid for them, the "republican strategy" has always been to propose NOTHING, or now, to propose "reform" of the very plans and very lobbying institutions that McCain has been embracing for the last 8 YEARS. McCain is no Maverick. McCain has no Plan.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Heather, Chapel Hill, NC — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 18:52:47 GMT

Finally, we have someone taking the future of this country seriously. We need to invest in education and the future of our children.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Eight Is Truly Enough — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 18:56:57 GMT

Just reading the flow of continuous GOP ignorance easily found on ANY blog out there now is more than reason enough to do whatever it takes to educate our children ASAP so they can do more than fill jails and stand on the front lines of some war where they die so that the kids of people like McCain, Bush and Palin can live cushy lives with the best of education and opportunity at their finger tips and adhere to those much touted "Christian" values and high moral standing they've been exhibited throught this campaign.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Just Asking, Peoria, IL — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 19:03:17 GMT

Senator Obama,

With your proposal, could I go to 5 colleges in 6 years get a bachelors' degree in communications and then get a job of VP?

(I know the idea sounds too stupid to be real.)

Obama announces new ed proposals

Proud Democrat — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 19:24:31 GMT

Ultimately, other than holding ALL schools and teachers to mandatory high standards the answers are with the parents of these children. You can lead horses to water but you can't make them drink. If the parents are not taking an interest in what the children are doing after school, then there is no incentive for the children to learn. It is still "the economy stupid".
When both parents have to work (sometimes 2 jobs) to feed and house the family The kids end up raising themselves with TV and XBox Games. As the twig is bent, so grows the tree. After school care is crucial to the future of the children and the country. Our jobs are not being outsourced only because labor is cheap (though that is the main reason). The other reason is that some other countries have smarter people. Why? Education. It starts very early( as young as 3 yrs) and is not optional. It really does take a village to raise a child. Is it not worth a few extra dollars in taxes to secure the future of our children or our country?
It is to me. Freedom has never been free. It demands sacrifice. That is the real difference between the parties. Republicans have it and will not part with it. Democrats may have it but are willing to sacrifice it for the common good. This is not "Socialism" it is good sense.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Mark, Tampa Florida — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 19:25:35 GMT

I love the comment from the supposed Teacher (who can't spell. Read Newsweek today darling. Newsweek , the liberal magazine proves that all you
Comments about Palin are lies. I truely hope you are not a teacher. That would explain why our public education system is in such poor condition..

Obama announces new ed proposals

JB, Houston, TX — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 19:25:43 GMT

Hmm...why aren't we hearing anything substantial on the issues like this from the McCain camp? I haven't heard anything at all from them on issues - just snark. I've seen enough of their divisiveness and inaction. Is mccain just waiting for obama to give his speeches so he can bogart all his ideas and call them his own? Ms Palin surely can't talk without a script and without daddy by her side. Is this what you really want in your government? It's the same as what we've had the last 8 years. ENOUGH!!

Obama, keep on with the issues - that's what voters are looking for. Soon enough the mccain palin beauty contest will wear thin and voters will be looking for real answers and real solutions, and you'll be right there with both.

Obama announces new ed proposals

Mark, Milwaukee, W — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 19:28:28 GMT

Such ideas and pragmatism deserves a chant - USA! USA!! USA!!!USA!!!! USA!!!!USA!!!!!USA! USA!! USA!!!USA!!!! USA!!!!USA!!!!!USA! USA!! USA!!!USA!!!! USA!!!!USA!!!!!
as China showed us that they are on a march to wrestle the GOLD from our hands!