Iowa: stop attacking schools

I strongly urge you to reconsider the policies being implemented across our state, as they are increasingly unpopular and harmful to our communities. Your focus on investigating universities for alleged causes of out-migration is misguided. The real issue lies in the workplace shortages, but more importantly, regular Iowans—those who contribute to the state’s growth—are leaving, too. We’re being driven out by policies that fail to consider the everyday needs of working families. We do not want school vouchers; what we need is fully funded education where teachers don’t have to rely on fundraisers for basic classroom supplies, and where our kids receive the resources they deserve. How embarrassing is it to explain to our children why they're constantly trying to raise money? From an early age their learning that you don't care about them. The recent focus on book bans is also deeply concerning. Limiting access to diverse viewpoints and important literature undermines the the educational freedom that should be a cornerstone of our schools. It is critical that students have the opportunity to learn from a variety of perspectives and ideas, rather than being restricted by politically motivated decisions. Furthermore, the time spent on issues such as gendered bathroom policies is distracting and divisive. We need your leadership to address the real concerns of Iowans, not to engage in cultural battles that only deepen d divisions. It’s also crucial to remember that the choices being made now are entirely in your hands. Republicans control the state, and as the party in power, you alone are responsible for the direction Iowa is heading. There’s no one left to blame but your own party for the decisions that are damaging our schools, driving out people, and perpetuating divisive rhetoric. You can no longer claim to be victims of external forces—this is your doing. Many of you won your elections by narrow margins, and the choices you make today will influence whether you continue to have the support to remain in office tomorrow. Continuing to dismantle the very institutions that could help Iowa grow is a losing strategy. Iowans are watching, and they know who is responsible for these decisions. You will be held accountable for your actions, and it’s clear that average people are losing out because of your current plans.