Education is the foundation upon which the United States has grown and developed into an amazing nation. It is also critical factor to building a future that sees the United States continue to improve and lead the world in solving the most-difficult challenges,

For parents, there is no greater responsibility that educating their children. Parents only have an opportunity to raise their children one time. Schools are entrusted with our children and have the daunting responsibility to provide a learning environment where every child can maximize their potential. The government creates the conditions where parents feel that their children are growing to their utmost and providing resources so that schools can effectively educate these children.

Balancing the relationship between the children’s education priorities, the parents’ right to determine what is best for their children and the school’s mission of teaching our children is a complex problem that has not lived up to the standards.

As a state representative since 2020, I have had the opportunity to talk to hundreds of parents. I have visited classrooms, met with superintendents and principals, listened to teachers and talked at length to state education leaders. Many parents are satisfied with the education offered in the public schools; however, a significant number are unhappy with the public schools due to academic shortfalls, curriculum disagreement or social issues.

Some teachers are frustrated with discipline in the classroom, the lack of support from parents and too many tasks required without adequate resources or time, yet I have visited many classrooms where the teachers are energized and clearly excited to be in the classroom with young minds actively engaged.

The administrators I have met with have provided insights regarding resources available versus task-required discrepancies. I have had inspiring discussions with principals who understand leadership and have been able to realize significant gains in educational outcomes. The challenge for the state is to help children maximize their potential by balancing a very complex set of inputs.

In general, the state education budget has continued to increase despite an decrease in student population. Much of the budget increased have gone to administrative positions rather than to directly to teachers or classrooms. While the budget has risen, student performance continues to be underwhelming. Parents who see these results are frustrated that the tax dollars they pay for education are not yielding satisfactory results and until recently have not been able to afford an alternative.

School administrators feel threatened by further diminished student populations and commensurate state funding. Some leaders are taking action to improve the quality of education at their schools, while others continue to seek ever increasing funding. The state should continue to support public schools in providing the best education possible while enabling parents to make the best choices possible for the child who they will raise only one time.

The state should support actions that help solve these problems. First, and most important, recognize that the mission is to maximize the potential of every child. Help schools focus on critical tasks and minimize extraneous requirements. Provide parents, who know their children best, the ability to place their child in the most-advantageous situation. Provide a safe and secure environment for children. Support and promote exceptional teachers and administrators who take the initiative, use their imaginations and find ways to effectively engage with their students.

From a societal perspective, look at ways to help improve the overall health of children through proper diet, exercise and healthy lifestyles. Create a trusting relationship between children, parents, teachers, administrators and state officials. The teamwork needed to solve problems is, in many cases, undermined by mistrust. The state and local levels must learn to work together in order to help our children thrive.

New Hampshire is one of the best states in the country for education, but we must get better. State and local leaders and educators must work with parents and children to create a system where all children can be the best they can be.

State Rep. Jim Creighton is a Republican whose district includes Antrim and Bennington.