Teacher shortages
Schools are struggling to recruit and retain educators, increasing pressure on staff and disrupting student learning.
Dawn Rasmussen for Congress
A New Dawn For Oregon
Education
Investing in schools, students, and Oregon’s future
Strong schools build strong communities. Right now, too many students, families, and educators are being asked to do more with less. Oregon needs an education agenda that supports teachers, lowers costs, modernizes classrooms, and creates real pathways from school to career.
Why this matters
Education should open doors, not create barriers
We’re seeing teacher shortages, outdated facilities, rising costs for students, and a growing disconnect between education and real career opportunities. These challenges affect families at every stage, from early learning to higher education to workforce training.
Grounded in experience
I’ve served on a local school board. I’ve seen how these challenges play out in real time, and how often our communities are left waiting for support that should already be there. We need to do better at connecting investment to outcomes.
What’s not working
The challenges families and schools are facing now
Students and educators need practical solutions, not more delays. These are some of the biggest barriers standing in the way of opportunity.
Outdated facilities
Aging buildings and deferred maintenance leave too many students learning in spaces that are overdue for repair and upgrades.
Rising student costs
Higher tuition and growing debt are making college, training, and career advancement harder to afford.
Disconnected pathways
Too many education and training tracks still do not connect clearly to local jobs, skilled trades, and real career opportunities.
As your Representative
I will fight for an education system that delivers results
Stronger schools, better support for educators, and clearer career pathways can help communities across Oregon thrive.
01
Invest in public schools and educators
Increase support for teachers, reduce burnout, and make sure schools have the staff and resources they need to succeed.
02
Modernize school infrastructure
Repair and upgrade outdated buildings so students can learn in safe, functional, and future-ready environments.
03
Lower the cost of higher education
Expand affordability, reduce reliance on student debt, and support community colleges and workforce training programs.
04
Strengthen career and technical education
Build clear pathways from high school to skilled trades, apprenticeships, and local careers with lasting opportunity.
05
Align education with workforce needs
Partner with local employers and industries so students graduate with skills that match real opportunities in Oregon communities.
06
Ensure students are future-ready
Support access to up-to-date technology and learning tools without leaving rural schools and smaller communities behind.
Support a stronger future for Oregon students
Education should create opportunity at every stage of life. I’ll focus on supporting teachers, lowering costs, and making sure students are prepared for real opportunities here in Oregon.