The Cost of Underfunding Education
Oregon's education system has been chronically underfunded for decades. Class sizes are too large, teachers are underpaid, and the cost of higher education puts college out of reach for too many families. Meanwhile, students graduate unprepared for the challenges of the 21st century economy.
Rabbi Fora is a first-generation college graduate who understands the transformative power of education and the barriers that keep too many Oregonians from accessing it.
Tuition-Free College for Oregon
Higher education should be a right, not a privilege reserved for the wealthy. Rabbi Fora will make all Oregon public universities and community colleges tuition-free for Oregon residents.
"I was the second person in my family to graduate from college, after my sister. I know what it means to work while studying, to worry about loans, to wonder if you can afford to finish. No Oregonian should face those barriers."
- Rabbi Fora
What Tuition-Free Means:
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All Public Universities
University of Oregon, Oregon State, Portland State, and all other public universities will be tuition-free for Oregon residents.
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Community Colleges
All 17 Oregon community colleges will be tuition-free, providing accessible pathways to degrees and careers.
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Trade & Vocational Programs
Apprenticeships, trade certifications, and vocational training programs will be fully funded. Not every career requires a four-year degree.
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Living Expenses Support
Expand grants and support for housing, food, and childcare so students can focus on learning, not surviving.
Fully Funded K-12 Schools
Oregon created the Quality Education Model (QEM)[3] to define what fully funded schools would look like. Then we ignored it. Rabbi Fora will finally fund Oregon schools at QEM levels and beyond.
Smaller Class Sizes
Hire enough teachers to reduce class sizes so every student gets individual attention and support.
Competitive Teacher Pay
Pay teachers what they deserve. Oregon should lead the nation in attracting and retaining excellent educators.
Modern Facilities
Upgrade aging school buildings, ensure every classroom has modern technology, and create safe learning environments.
Support Staff
Fund counselors, librarians, nurses, and support staff so teachers can focus on teaching.
Universal Pre-K
Expand early childhood education so every Oregon child starts kindergarten ready to learn.
Special Education
Fully fund special education services so every student, regardless of ability, gets the support they need.
Hands-On Sustainability Learning
The climate crisis demands that we prepare the next generation with practical skills in sustainability, agriculture, and environmental stewardship. Oregon's students should learn by doing.
A Greenhouse in Every School District
Rabbi Fora will establish a greenhouse or garden program in every Oregon school district. Students will learn:
- Sustainable agriculture and food production
- Climate science and environmental stewardship
- Nutrition and healthy eating
- Business and entrepreneurship through farm-to-school programs
This isn't just about growing vegetables. It's about growing responsible citizens who understand their connection to the land and their responsibility to future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will you pay for free college?
Through progressive tax reform that asks the wealthiest Oregonians and corporations to pay their fair share. The total cost is a fraction of what we lose to tax loopholes and the "kicker." Investing in education pays for itself through economic growth and reduced social costs.
Will free tuition reduce education quality?
No. Many countries with free or low-cost higher education have excellent universities. The key is adequate funding, which our tax reform will provide. Free tuition attracts more students, which strengthens our institutions.
What about private schools and colleges?
Private institutions can continue to operate as they do now. Our focus is on public education: making sure every Oregonian has access to quality education regardless of family wealth.
Questions or Feedback?
Have questions about Rabbi Fora's education policy? Want to share your thoughts? We'd love to hear from you.
Invest in Oregon's Future
Education is the foundation of opportunity. Help us build an Oregon where every child can reach their potential.