Fighting for Fully Funded Public Education

Public education is the bedrock of our democracy and the foundation for opportunity in every Texas community. Every child—regardless of zip code, income, or ability—deserves a world-class education in a safe, well-funded public school. Yet, our schools are under attack from politicians like Pete Sessions, who have consistently put special interests and private profit over the needs of students, teachers, and families. Pete Sessions has led efforts to defund the Department of Education, including critical divisions that protect civil rights and disability rights. His actions undermine the very protections that ensure all students—including students of color, students with disabilities, and those from marginalized backgrounds—receive a fair and equitable education. Even worse, Pete Sessions supports a national school voucher scheme that would funnel billions of taxpayer dollars away from our public schools and send that money to private, often sectarian, institutions. These vouchers would drain resources from neighborhood schools that serve every child, instead subsidizing schools that can pick and choose their students and are not accountable to the public. 

J. Gordon Mitchell believes that public schools are for every child in the community—not just for the wealthy or the privileged few. He knows that strong public schools are the key to strong communities, vibrant local economies, and a more just and inclusive society.J. Gordon Mitchell’s plan to defend and invest in public education includes:

• Restoring and increasing funding for the Department of Education and its vital civil rights and disability rights divisions, so that every student is protected and supported.
• Opposing school voucher schemes and any efforts to divert public money to private or religious schools.
• Investing in our public schools—raising teacher pay, reducing class sizes, and providing the resources schools need to meet every child’s needs.
• Expanding access to pre-K, special education, and after-school programs so all children can thrive from their earliest years.
• Supporting safe, inclusive, and healthy school environments where diversity is celebrated and no student is left behind.
• Partnering with parents, teachers, and local school boards to strengthen neighborhood schools and ensure local voices are heard in education policy decisions.

With J. Gordon Mitchell’s leadership, TX-17 will have a champion who will always fight for our public schools, our educators, and—most importantly—our children. He will stand up to those who would dismantle public education, and instead work to build a brighter future where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.