As a classroom teacher and educational leader for over 25 years , I understand that getting a good start in life should be available for every child in Maine, regardless of where they live. Equal access to a good education is vital to Maine’s economy. The Maine Legislature has consistently failed to meet its legal obligation to fund 55% of local educational costs. From 2008-09 to 2015-16, the state underfunded this obligation by almost $1.2 billion, shifting the costs instead to you, the property tax payer. When I get to Augusta I will work hard to ensure that the will of the voters is followed by supporting a fair school funding formula. ​