President Barack Obama prioritizes education in his budget

President Barack Obama has sent a love letter to education — just in time for Valentine’s Day.

The president presented his recommended budget to Congress this week, and he is asking for a historic increase in K-12 education.

The Department of Education highlighted his budget request as it impacts schools.

Obama’s budget would provide a $3 billion increase in K-12 education programs, plus up to an additional $1 billion funding if Congress approves his proposed overhaul of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.

That represents the largest funding increase for K-12 education ever requested.

The president also has laid out programs that will work with families and schools to help students stay in high school, earn their diplomas and move on to a higher education. The Supporting Student Success initiatives also sees a big jump, meaning schools can extend hours and days in school to help students accommodate more electives that spark and keep their interest in schools.

Pell Grants, for those from low-income families who want to attend college, also would see a significant increase of about $5.6 billion.

But as some areas increase, others take a hit, such as career and technical education — two areas that, it’s important to note, should be key parts of any district’s strategy to combat the high school dropout epidemic.  

What are your thoughts on President Obama’s funding proposals? Do you think he has the right priorities? What would you change?