Senate Democrat Caucus

CHARLESTON--Senate Democrats unveiled an education package of their own on Monday.

“We listened to citizens all across the state. They suggested that we get to the bottom of what holds our students back. They recommended policies that work in the world’s best schools. Together, we discovered opportunities to try new things that will put students first,” said Senator Stephen Baldwin (D-Greenbrier).

“We want to be proactive,” said Senator Paul Hardesty (D- Logan). “After holding ten listening sessions around the state, attending the Department of Education’s round tables, and considering the Department’s recommendations set forth in their final report, we feel that this package of bills accurately reflects the will of the people.”

“One of our issues with SB 451 during the regular session was that it was all one bill with a non-severability clause,” said Senator Glenn Jeffries (D-Putnam). “This package contains six separate bills—that we think will work--that can be discussed on their individual merits.”

“We look forward to engaging in a robust discussion about what’s best for the future of education in our state,” said Minority Leader Senator Roman Prezioso (D-Marion).

The Democrats’ education package contains bills that are centered on four core ideas:

ADDRESS THE ROOT SOCIAL PROBLEMS

• Reduce substance abuse in newborns by funding Drug Free Mother-Baby Programs
• Put a full-time mental health professional in all schools
  

RESTORE LOCAL FLEXIBILITY

• Remove burdensome regulations to Innovation Zones, Local School Improvement Councils, and virtual schools
• Amend the state aid formula to ensure local funds are controlled locally
• Modernize the alternative education allocation to counties so they can meet the unique needs of their students
  

STRENGTHEN QUALITY INSTRUCTION

• Take the WVDE recommendation of studying class size to find will be most effective, while being affordable
• Better pay and supply funds for teachers and service personnel
• Increase in classroom supply funds
• Study student loan forgiveness for new teachers who stay in state for five years
  

INCREASE VOCATIONAL/TECHNICAL EDUCATION

• Expand Vocational education to middle schools, so students are better-prepared for the jobs of today’s economy