Dear Editor,
As an educator and advocate for Nevada’s students, I have spent my career fighting for better resources, fair policies, and sustainable funding for our schools. Our state has long struggled with one of the lowest per-pupil funding rates in the nation, and while progress has been made, we are still far from where we need to be. That is why I strongly support Pass the Plan, a roadmap to achieving optimal education funding within the next decade.
At the heart of this effort is AJR1, a critical measure that would reset property valuation at the point of sale—bringing in much-needed revenue to our schools without raising taxes across the board. This policy change alone would generate 50% of the necessary funds to fully implement Pass the Plan, providing a sustainable source of funding for smaller class sizes, competitive educator salaries, and improved special education services.
Additionally, measures like AB398 must be strengthened to ensure all hard-to-fill positions—including education support professionals (ESPs) and other licensed education professionals (OLEPs)—receive the compensation they deserve. Every educator, from teachers and paraprofessionals to counselors and bus drivers, plays a crucial role in supporting our students. If we fail to invest in them, we fail our children.
For too long, Nevada’s education system has been an afterthought in our state budget. We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to change that by passing legislation that provides sustainable, dedicated school funding. I urge lawmakers to take action and fully commit to Pass the Plan. Our students, educators, and communities cannot afford to wait any longer.
Kimberly Shepherd
Adapted Physical Education Specialist
Carson City School District
