Jen Richardson

Education

Our schools need to be funded adequately and equitably. More attention needs to be paid to treating and teaching the whole child. Learn more

To address student loan debt that many working and middle class people have, I support expanding the Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program and the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, so that it is reliable and accessible. We should also expand the use of income-driven repayment plans, so that it is the default when repayment begins. In addition, we must forgive the debt accrued by students who have been defrauded by the for-profit colleges that have left these students with no credentials and loads of debt. Learn more

In addition to K-12 education reform, we need to expand opportunities for students after high school. This includes access to career and technological education. This provides alternative routes to college and alternative paths for students to find their passion. I support making two-year public colleges free to all and increasing Pell grants. Learn more

Creating a network of the existing childcare options with federally funded resources and providing grants for expansion so that more centers, home daycares, and public schools may offer affordable care is necessary. Expansion should include resources to have affordable, high-quality care available for parents working nights and weekends as well. This network will allow childcare workers to be paid as the critically important teachers that they are. This will be a stabilizing force in our communities, from which all people, not just those with small children, will benefit. When parents can work and children can learn and grow in a safe and healthy environment, communities flourish. Learn more