America needs to build jobs at home
In the coming months, we're going to have a debate about whose vision will deliver for the American people. We must make sure that the next generation of manufacturing takes root in the factories of our country.
Americans want this nation to be known for building and selling products all around the world. But, in order to accomplish that goal, congressional Republicans have got to stop rewarding businesses that ship jobs overseas, and start rewarding companies that are creating jobs at home.
We must make our public schools the envy of the world, and that starts by recognizing the importance of those men or women at the front of the classroom. A good teacher can increase the lifetime earnings of a classroom by over $250,000.
Our representatives in Congress shouldn't be defending the status quo, nor spending time bashing teachers. They should be providing schools with the resources they need to hire good teachers and retain them. We must allow schools the flexibility to teach with creativity and passion. We must stop teaching to the test, and replace those teachers who aren't helping our children. Barack Obama wants to provide resources, but insists on reform and accountability.
The biggest challenge, that our young adults are facing today is how to afford a college education. Tuition debt is now greater than credit card debt. In July, interest rates on student loans are scheduled to double if Congress doesn't do anything about it.
Our government has got to focus on making sure our young people can get good value for their money, and that they're making informed choices.
Colleges and universities must do their part, by controlling costs and stop raising tuition.
Higher education cannot be a luxury. It's an economic imperative that every family in America should be able to afford.
Jim O'Leary
Delhi
