Juneau -- The Alaska Senate Friday introduced legislation establishing a two-prong approach to funding and improving the state's educational system. Senate Bill 168, sponsored by Senator Jerry Ward (R-Anchorage/Kenai) establishes a land trust for funding education, and a tuition voucher system.

"This bill would create a 5 million-acre endowment trust to ensure adequate future funding for education," said Ward. "The trust would be entitled to 100 percent of any income derived from land sales, leases, contracts, licenses or other uses of the granted land. Not only would this trust secure the financial future of Alaska's schools, but it would also create new jobs and stimulate economic development as the resources of the trust are developed and harvested."

The second prong of Ward's plan would use revenues of the trust to pay operational costs of education from K through University, including funding for an educational voucher system. Goals of the voucher system include enhanced educational opportunities and to promote more competition and quality in the delivery of educational services.

"The evidence favoring choice is too compelling to ignore," said Ward. "Many states and school districts have implemented choice programs and realized tremendous educational improvements. Dropout rates decline, teacher satisfaction improves, test scores increase, and student behavior and attendance improve."

Ward notes that his legislation offers a common-sense approach to funding and improving Alaska's educational system. SB 168 now goes to the Senate Health, Education, and Social Services Committee for consideration.

Broadcasters note: Audio comments are available on the Majority Actuality line, 1-800-478-6540
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