SALEM, Ore. (KATU) — This week, the Oregon House and Senate Committees on Education gathered for their first meetings of the session. Education is a key focus this year, especially from Governor Tina Kotek.
During a Senate hearing, discussions highlighted the need for more investment in higher education in Oregon. Ben Cannon, head of the Higher Education Coordinating Commission, shared that Oregon spends 24% less per student compared to the national average.
“For every extra $1,000 invested per student, we see better graduation rates and lower student debt,” Cannon explained.
Margaret DelLacy, the president of the Oregon Association for Talented and Gifted, also spoke up. She wants a bill that would require schools to report on students in the Talented and Gifted (TAG) programs.
DelLacy pointed out a common misconception: that TAG students don’t need help. “The truth is, they do,” she said. She noted that the number of TAG students has dropped by 15% over the last 20 years.
She emphasized that funding is uneven across districts, making it hard to provide the same quality of education. “Some districts have excellent programs, while others have nothing. This leads to serious inequalities,” DelLacy added.
Next week, the House Committee on Education will continue their discussions. The focus remains on finding solutions to strengthen education for all students in Oregon.
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Education,Funding,Oregon,Higher education,Senate,House Committee,TAG program,Equity