ATLANTA (March 16, 2010) – Sen. Vincent Fort (D-Atlanta) joined 500 Georgia college students during a rally at the State Capitol today to protest higher education budget cuts. Students encouraged legislators to stop cuts to college programs, and end tuition increases.
“Higher education is the last place where funding should be cut. These students are the future leaders of Georgia, and they deserve a quality college experience,” said Sen. Fort. “Georgia will not progress unless we invest in educating our students.”
In addition to apprehensions about increased tuition, students also voiced their concerns about the elimination of curriculum programs. Sen. Fort opposes this budget cutting method, and feels students should have the opportunity to learn about a variety of subjects.
“When we cut higher education in this way, we are taking away the American Dream from our young people,” said Sen. Fort.
Fort has been a champion for issues concerning education, and currently serves on the Senate Education and Youth committee. He has also drafted legislation (Senate Bill 132) that will increase the high school drop out age from 16 to 17.
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Sen. Vincent Fort represents the 39th Senate District which includes a portion of Fulton County. He may be reached at his office at the Capitol at 404.656.5091, by cell phone at 404.287.7116.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
March 16,2010
For Information Contact:
Jennifer Kitt, Press Office Coordinator
Jennifer.Kitt@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028