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Promises about Education on Bob-O-Meter

Establish a health sciences high school

"In cooperation with our universities and community colleges, Bob McDonnell will establish at least one Virginia Health Sciences High School (academy or Governor's school) to specifically prepare students for further study in nursing, medical technology, pharmacy, medical equipment specialties and veterinary or medical school."

Award 100,000 additional degrees

McDonnell's plan for higher education includes "100,000 additional Associates and Bachelors' Degrees over the next 15 years."

Implement drug education program

McDonnell will implement a standard for programs that teach students how drugs can negatively impact physical and mental health, as well as the social consequences of substance abuse that reach children at a variety of ages.

Seek law establishing "gang-free zones"

Bob McDonnell will propose the expansion of “gang-free school zones,” into “gang-free zones,” similar to the “drug-free zones,” currently in our state laws.

Double the number of Governor's Career and Technical Academies

We will double the number of Governor's Career and Technical Academies that focus on science, technology, engineering, and math and career technical skills.

Consolidate workforce training programs

We will consolidate the 23 different workforce training programs we have that are currently spread across nine state agencies and make our community colleges the hub of our workforce training efforts.

Increase funding for Virginia Teaching Scholarship Program

Over the course of the McDonnell administration, we will increase the amount of funding available for the Virginia Teaching Scholarship Program and set aside a portion of the funds specifically for STEM and career technical education shortage areas.

Propose new methods for establishing charter schools

As governor, Bob McDonnell will propose alternative methods of establishing charter schools in Virginia, such as allowing the state Board of Education to approve applications.

Appoint public school turnaround leader

As governor, Bob McDonnell will appoint a public school turnaround leader, at the Department of Education, whose sole mission will be to focus on the underperforming schools and set in motion urgent plans to eliminate obstacles to success.

Increase classroom share of education spending

The McDonnell/Bolling administration will increase the state average for spending in the classroom by 4 percent over the course of their administration.