Next week, thousands of Southwest Michigan families will send their children and young adults back to school. As a father of two, I understand the importance of ensuring that our youngest citizens receive a quality education. I have long been committed to the improvement of our education system and believe that an educated workforce means a stronger and more stable economy.

Not only that, but a strong education remains the bedrock of civic life. Luckily, we are blessed with a quality educational system that begins with programs like Head Start, continues with K-12 education, and goes all the way to vocational training or higher education. I remain committed to ensuring everyone in Southwest Michigan has the opportunity to receive a quality education that will help them succeed throughout their lives.

I have long been an advocate for Head Start programs, which provide our most disadvantaged children the resources they need to receive a first-rate education. I support STEAM programs that promote Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math so that our students can compete in our global economy for the jobs of the future. I have also been a strong supporter of working to keep higher education affordable for everyone who wants to attend and promoting alternative choices like vocational schools for who choose job-related training.

Every child in every school deserves access to an excellent education.

A proper education is necessary for success in today’s world and I remain ever-committed to working towards the goal of quality education for all here in Southwest Michigan.