How the Upcoming Election Affects Education: What Parents of Students Need to Know
The upcoming election is just around the corner, and while it’s easy to get caught up in debates and campaign ads, it’s also a critical time for parents of high school students to pay attention to the impact that new policies could have on education. Decisions made at both the national and local levels can directly shape the future of our schools—affecting everything from class sizes to funding for advanced placement courses. In this post, we’ll break down some of the key educational issues on the ballot, how they might impact your student, and how you can engage your teen in meaningful discussions about the election.
1. School Funding: The Foundation of Educational Quality
School funding is one of the most hotly debated topics in every election. The way schools are funded—often through a combination of federal, state, and local resources—has a direct impact on the quality of education that students receive.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), per-pupil spending varies widely across states, with some states spending over $20,000 per student, while others spend less than half that amount.
A report from Education Week indicates that increased education spending is often associated with better academic outcomes, smaller class sizes, and access to more resources like technology and extracurricular programs.
In this election, many candidates have outlined different plans for how they intend to address disparities in school funding. As a parent, it’s important to consider how these plans could affect the schools in your area. Will more funding be directed toward public schools, or will there be a push for private school vouchers? Understanding these proposals can help you make an informed decision that supports your student’s needs.
2. Focus on STEM and Career Readiness
In today’s rapidly evolving job market, a strong foundation in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) is more important than ever. Some candidates prioritize increased funding for STEM programs, which could mean more opportunities for your teen to access advanced classes, summer programs, or even internships that prepare them for high-demand careers.
A survey by Pew Research Center found that 52% of Americans believe that boosting STEM education should be a top priority for the federal government.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) reports that high school students who participate in STEM programs are more likely to pursue STEM majors in college and secure jobs in these fields.
This election could determine the future of STEM funding, making it an important issue for parents to consider. A candidate who supports increased investment in STEM could mean more opportunities for your teen to thrive in these critical subjects.
3. Changes to Standardized Testing and College Admissions
Over the years, standardized testing has become a key component of college admissions. But in recent times, there has been growing debate over the role of tests like the SAT and ACT, especially as many colleges adopt test-optional policies. Some candidates have proposed reforms to standardized testing to create a more equitable admissions process.
According to a report from FairTest, over 1,800 colleges and universities have adopted test-optional policies, a trend that accelerated during the pandemic.
Research from the American Educational Research Association indicates that high-stakes testing can sometimes create barriers for low-income students, making reforms an important discussion point.
For parents, understanding where each candidate stands on testing policies can help you anticipate how the college admissions process might evolve in the coming years. Will standardized tests remain a crucial part of college applications, or will we see a shift toward a more holistic review process? These changes could directly impact how you and your student prepare for college applications.
4. Engaging Your Teen in the Election Process
The election isn’t just an opportunity to make your voice heard—it’s also a great chance to teach your high schooler about civic engagement. Even if your teen isn’t old enough to vote, you can still involve them in discussions about the issues that matter most to their future.
Discuss the candidates’ education platforms and ask your teen which policies they think would benefit their school the most.
Encourage them to research how school board members are elected and how local decisions can impact their day-to-day school experience.
Use this time to explore why voting is important and how every voice can make a difference in shaping community policies.
Studies have shown that teens who are engaged in discussions about politics are more likely to become active voters when they turn 18. According to a survey by Tufts University's Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE), 74% of young people who talked about politics with their families during high school reported feeling more confident about participating in elections later in life.
Final Thoughts: Why Your Vote Matters for Education
As a parent, your vote has the power to influence the policies that will shape your teen’s education. By understanding where candidates stand on key issues like school funding, STEM support, and standardized testing reforms, you can make an informed decision that supports your child’s academic journey. And by engaging your teen in these discussions, you’re helping to create a new generation of informed and engaged citizens.
Let’s work together to ensure that every student has access to the resources they need to succeed—both in the classroom and beyond!
Sources:
National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) – School Funding Data.
Pew Research Center – Public Priorities for Education and STEM.
Education Week – Impact of School Funding on Academic Outcomes.
FairTest – Trends in Test-Optional College Admissions.
American Educational Research Association – High-Stakes Testing Research.
Tufts University's CIRCLE – Civic Engagement Among Young People.
