Education is the cornerstone of both the American dream and Texas’ future financial well-being.  We cannot afford to ignore deficiencies existing in our public education system.  I support a strong public education system, increased local control for our school boards, improved vocational training and fair compensation for our teachers.  I oppose any voucher system that diminishes funding otherwise available for our public schools.  Texas must strive to provide our students with 21st century learning skills.  Doing so will immediately benefit our children, provide them limitless opportunities and improve everyone’s quality of life. This is a priority, and I am committed to that effort.  In addition to focusing on the improvement of our public education system, I am a strong advocate for higher education and our community college systems as well.  Because a four-year college degree path may not be right for every individual, I support the strengthening of our community college systems so that realistic and affordable educational options exist for everyone.