School District funding
STRONG PUBLIC SCHOOLS. STRONG COMMUNITIES.
As a County Councilmember, Maria will never support policies that make it harder to fund public education.
Every child deserves access to a quality education, regardless of their ZIP code. Strong public schools are one of the most important investments a community can make. They prepare students for future careers, strengthen neighborhoods, attract businesses, and support long-term economic growth.
Teachers, counselors, paraprofessionals, bus drivers, and school staff are not expendable. They work every day to help students succeed, often while facing increasing demands and limited resources.
Maria believes local leaders should be working to strengthen public education, not creating additional financial obstacles for school districts that are already struggling to meet student needs.
Educational funding disparities continue to affect school districts throughout the St. Louis region. Research has found that high-need districts often face greater financial challenges despite serving students who require additional support and services.
Recent debates over local government finances have also highlighted concerns about how county policies can affect schools and public services. Several St. Louis County school districts have warned that policy changes affecting local revenues could result in significant funding losses that may impact educational programs and operations.
Maria believes that:
Public education should be protected and strengthened.
Teachers and school staff deserve support and respect.
Students in struggling districts should receive additional resources, not fewer.
Government decisions should consider their impact on classrooms and families.
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, thrive, and succeed.
Throughout her public service career, Maria has supported educational opportunity, equity, and investment in children. She understands that the future of St. Louis County depends on the success of its students today.
Because investing in our children is investing in our future.