EDUCATION/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

A re-direction of educational resources and priorities are required to better prepare our students for job opportunities.  In New Mexico, there is an educational crisis, especially with respect to Hispanic dropout rates and the growing achievement gap.  Families and parents must be encouraged to engage in their childrens’ education.  Programs such as “Learn and Earn”, which reward families and students for academic performance show very impressive results.  Using some Title I funds for such programs are in order. Other successful models include ENLACE’s “Walk and Knock” program.  Jon Barela would also support a re-direction of resources for family centers and “Dean of Families” at  certain schools.  Barela has spent many years in the community working on behalf of educational programs.  He knows what works and what does not.