HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 95

(By Delegate Manchin)

Requesting the Legislative Auditor to conduct an efficiencies and effectiveness audit of public education in the State of West Virginia.

    Whereas, Public education is the primary method by which the majority of our state’s children are educated; and

    Whereas, Public education is the foundation upon which our children learn and grow into becoming productive adult citizens involved in their communities; and

    Whereas, Public education offers our children a forum of diversity where ideas may flourish and a protected environment in which to explore the world; and

    Whereas, Public education is the primary learning center in which our children acquire the formative core knowledge and the fundamental skills in order to succeed in their chosen occupations and professions later in life; and

    Whereas, Public education is the key not only to our children’s future, but is also essential in maintaining a vibrant economy; and

    Whereas, James Madison, the fourth President of the United States, said, "A well-instructed people alone can be permanently a free people" public education is essential in order to preserve our freedom; and

    Whereas, Public education is one of the first considerations of businesses looking to open operations in a state and individuals seeking to relocate their families to that state and is essential in maintaining a vibrant economy; and

    Whereas, Public education is the single greatest bulwark against tyranny, crime, and societal degradation. Educated youth mean less out-of-marriage births, lower crime rates, a competent workforce, and individuals who take responsibility for their actions rather than becoming wards of the state; and

    Whereas, Much of the public education and its facilities in this state has not been reviewed from a proficiency standpoint; therefore, be it

    Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

    That the Legislative Auditor conduct an efficiencies and effectiveness audit of public education in the State of West Virginia; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the Legislative Auditor report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2012, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this audit, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.