Waynedale Political Commentaries

SUPPORTING HOOSIER TEACHERS – Straight From The Senate

It’s hard to think of a profession that has a greater impact on our future than teaching. Indiana has a long tradition of excellent classroom instruction, and our part of the state is no exception.

Earlier this year, Jean Russell, who teaches at Haverhill Elementary School within Southwest Allen County Schools, was named the Indiana Teacher of the Year. I commend Jean for her hard work and tremendous passion for teaching. With her 25 years of teaching experience and numerous prior awards and recognitions, it is obvious that Jean Russell has made a significant impact upon her students and her school.

As President Pro Tempore of the Indiana Senate, I believe there’s still work to be done when it comes to supporting Hoosier teachers.

During the upcoming 2016 legislative session I look forward to supporting policies that:
·Ensure our teachers are given the resources needed to succeed;

·Boost recruiting efforts to continue attracting top talent into education;

·Cut unnecessary red tape that may be detracting from instruction time; and

·Provide for more sensible testing that doesn’t overburden teachers and students.

Supporting teachers is critical to ensuring students graduate from high school fully prepared for their next step in life.

Every Hoosier student deserves the opportunity to receive a high-quality education. By enabling schools to attract and keep talented teachers and reduce red-tape regulations in the classroom, we will help ensure that Hoosier students continue to receive a quality education focused on the well-being and advancement of each child’s learning.

As always, I welcome your thoughts and ideas concerning these and other topics. My office can be reached at 800-382-9467 or by email at Senator.Long@iga.in.gov

David Long - IN Dist. 16 Senator

David is a former Republican member of the Indiana State Senate representing the 16th district which encompasses Waynedale. He served as the President Pro Tempore of the Indiana State Senate. David writes the "Straight From The Senate" column for the newspaper. > Read Full Biography > More Articles Written By This Writer