Issues
Gubernatorial Candidates’ Education Platform Summary
Attorney General Tom Corbett
Tom Corbett believes that education reform and the quality of education PA students are receiving are some of the biggest issues facing our state. Corbett believes that all children should have access to the highest quality education available “regardless of their zip code or economic status”. He is a strong supporter of early childhood education, and also supports school choice, including charter schools, private schools, cyber charter schools, Earned Income Tax Credit program and home schooling. Corbett, a self-proclaimed “fiscal conservative”, does not believe that more money is necessarily the answer to problems with education. High standards, accountability, and efficiency in the public education system would be top priorities for Corbett if elected.
Allegheny County Chief Executive Dan Onorato
Dan Onorato believes in the importance of investing in our public education system, and supports the continued implementation of the education funding formula, currently in year 2 of 6. He does not support school vouchers, and believes that this type of program directs funds away from public schools and undermines the state’s ability to ensure that all schools are adequately funded. Onorato recognizes the connection between education and the economy, and asserts that we must provide our students with the knowledge and training necessary to compete in the high-skills job market of the 21st Century. With the state of Pennsylvania ranking 3rd in the nation in number of colleges and universities, Dan sees institutions of learning as community economics centers, providing jobs and spurring business.
