By Jessica Shifflett

Virginia’s gubernatorial race is already drawing nationwide attention. As we face an increasingly uncertain political and economic climate, Virginians must use their vote to support public education.

An educated population is one that can support itself financially and socially. As a product of Virginia public schools with a 14-year career as a Virginia educator, I know the importance of our public schools firsthand. I have seen that public education can change the course of a child’s life, setting them on career paths as diverse as nursing, engineering, welding or farming. Public education provides a strong baseline for content knowledge, citizenship and career preparation — for every child.

In the upcoming gubernatorial election, Democratic nominee Abigail Spanberger has made supporting Virginia public education a key part of her platform. As a parent of three children enrolled in Virginia public schools, Abigail has committed herself to preserving public school funding, addressing the teacher shortage and providing training to teachers.

This stands in stark contrast to the current Republican administration’s repeated attempts to undercut public schools, pushing a “school choice” agenda. While private schools may be an option for some, they are not financially feasible for most families, even with proposed vouchers (which drain funds from public schools). Private schooling can also inadvertently widen performance gaps between students of different races and different socioeconomic backgrounds, exacerbating existing disparities.

Public education is for the public, not just those who are left standing at the gates of exclusive private schools. Virginia deserves robust public school systems that retain outstanding teachers to educate our next generation of citizens. Eroding support for public schools only weakens the quality of education for all of our students and Virginia’s future.