Arriving to the thunderous chants of “SOS (Save Our Schools)” from 1,268 pink-clad member delegates, gubernatorial candidates, Gov. Pat Quinn and Sen. Bill Brady squared off in a lively forum at the IEA Representative Assembly. The two came to Rosemont at the invitation the state’s largest education employee organization.
In the packed session moderated by IEA President Ken Swanson, each of the candidates pledged support for quality education initiatives, but they came at school funding and pension issues in very different ways.
Quinn reiterated his immediate support for a 1 percentage point income tax increase, with funds dedicated solely to education. Sen. Brady contended his ability to attract jobs and businesses to Illinois would lead to stabilization of the state’s finances and adequate education funding in the long term.
Both candidates acknowledged that the state’s pension systems have been unfairly underfunded for years.
“We need to make sure we invest in our education system from early childhood to grammar school to high school to community college and universities,” said Quinn. ”We need to go to the people of Illinois and say, ‘We’re not going to cut our education budget. We’re going to invest in education because that’s the best way to save our education system and save our schools.’”
Brady, noting his past support for retired teacher health insurance, said fairness would be his guide in dealing with financial problems in the state.
“You deserve to be treated fairly,” said Brady, “and as governor of this state I will continue to do what I’ve done as a legislator, working with your association, working with local school officials and faculty, administrators and boards to give you the resources as best we can and let you make the decisions that are so important.”
Highlights of Quinn’s remarks included his support for working in partnership with the IEA to secure federal Race To The Top funds, pension fairness and stabilization measures, rebuilding the economy through job creation, and opposition to school voucher programs. He also indicated support for House Bill 174, a measure to raise state revenues and enact property tax relief, “if properly drafted.”
Brady, meanwhile, reiterated his plan to force new teachers into a defined contribution retirement plan, such a 401K program from the private sector. He said he supports cutting taxes, with the state living within its financial means and balancing the state budget, school vouchers if passed by local school district referendum and local control of school curriculum issues such as the teaching of creationism.
Both candidates pledged their desire to work with the IEA and its members in addressing legislative initiatives on school issues.
In closing remarks, IEA President Ken Swanson called on the candidates to elevate the debate during their respective campaigns and be role models for future political campaigns in the state.
“This was an outstanding event for our delegates and for all those who tuned in during the live video stream,” said Swanson. “We are grateful to both the candidates for their participation and candor. I know the delegate learned a great deal. We will certainly be hearing much more from them during the rest of their campaigns.”
Watch highlights of the session with Gov. Quinn and Sen. Brady.