Education
As a father, Jackson understands the stress of the New Orleans school system. Our children deserve a comprehensive and accessible school system. The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina devastated the school district and created an unequal charter system. Structural changes must be made to ensure our children get a high quality education that prepares them not just for university but work earning a solid living as a tradesperson.
Universal PreK
As a parent of two young boys, there is no better feeling than knowing they go to a quality daycare and pre-k. Numerous studies show that pre-k helps children succeed in the most critical early learning grades. The city must expand vouchers for children to reach their potential. Also, the cost of daycare and pre-k is unbearable for working class New Orleanians. Easing the strain on parents is a worthy goal that I will fight to achieve.
Job Training
Currently, New Orleans students are being educated to continue on to college after graduation. The city desperately needs workers trained in skills that do not require a college degree. Jackson supports expanded job training and partnering with our local unions to create graduates that can thrive with just a short triaining program. Building middle class households without a college degree is needed for the city to prosper into the future.
Charter Schools
Jackson supports returning charter schools to school board control. The charter-only system creates unnecessary issues with multiple administrations and charter organizations that lead to unreliable education. Schools are constantly under threat of closing if their charters aren’t renewed. This leaves families and students in a flux having to look for a new school at no fault of their own. Charter systems have differing admissions and testing requirements that also put burdens on families and students.
Teachers Unions
After Hurricane Katrina and the transition to an all-charter school system, the New Orleans Teachers Union was decimated. Teachers have fought for 20 years to win back protections and compensation with each charter organization. Jackson supports all union members and especially teachers as they fight for just compensation and benefits.