06/29/2016 Destroying Public Education fear mongering walls.

Although Elementary, Secondary, Post-secondary education costs are high in the world’s richest country, there are many places abroad where vocational/college education is virtually free.

Among the 30 Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Countries reporting data, seven countries, spent over 6.0 percent of their GDP on total education expenditures. The United States spends 4.2 percent of GDP.

The United States spent $11,700 per Full-time equivalent (FTE) student at the elementary/secondary level, which was 31 percent higher than the average of $9,000 for OECD member country reporting data.

Postsecondary level expenditures per FTE student $9,400 average for OECD member country reporting data.

The United States of GDP (2.8 percent) was higher than the OECD average (1.5 percent) and higher than that of any other OECD member country reporting data.

Free Public Education:

• Brazil: Brazil’s universities charge registration fees, but they do not require regular tuition.
• Germany: Is eager to attract foreign students to tuition-free universities due to the country’s shortage of skilled workers.
• Finland: Finland doesn’t have tuition fees, but the government does warn foreigners that they have to cover living expenses. Imagine going to college and only worrying about room and board.
• France: France does charge tuition – but normally around 200 dollars at public universities. A far cry from what you’d pay in the United States, even in a state school.
• Norway: Norwegian students, including foreigners studying in the country, do not have to pay any college tuition.
• Slovenia: Eastern Europe only charges a registration fee – no tuition.
• Sweden:  Although college there is free, cost of living may be pricey for foreigners.

Eliminating Charter Schools, Co-location using Public Facilities/Equipment, and Tuition Assistance would greatly improve well-managed Public School Systems.

A System that focuses on educating in Reading, Writing, Arithmetic, History, Social Studies, and Critical Thinking. Like all the OECD member countries. 

English as a second language would be given to students on a parent paid funding at registration. 

Special Needs and Vocational Education would remain a part the Public Education System costs for life; eliminating the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Call your Elected Officials and 2016 Candidates; Vote.

Last Updated: May 2016