Steven feels that the state of the education system is failing the city.

With a $300, annual budget, the goal needs to be about preparing the students for life by demanding that education is on the right path by fostering excellence in every classroom.

Higher teacher pay and lower teacher/student ratios need to be a priority moving forward.

The increased education budget requirements can be funded by the city demanding to the state officials that the city be placed on even grant schedules that other jurisdictions around the state receive. (At present, the city receives approximately 20% of its overall budget from the state, whereas some jurisdictions receive upwards of 80% of their annual education budgets from the state)

Mind sharing with other municipalities around the country regarding educational best practices should also be a consideration.