What they're Promising: Knox on Education

A look at some of the latest proposals issued by major candidates in Philadelphia's May 15 mayoral primary:

promised yesterday to establish a "Learn to Earn" program to encourage low-income students to learn real-world skills, such as how to save money; the long-term health effects of smoking, drugs and obesity; and how to engage in peaceful conflict resolution. Students from grades six through 12 would attend the after-school program and receive $5 credits for each session toward their family's utility bills or subsidized housing rents. Knox says the students would develop a sense of pride while contributing financially to their families. The program is the brainchild of his friend Paul S. Bachow, a private investor.

$4.5 million a year initially and potentially 10 times that amount if 50,000 children participate, each earning as much as $80 a month in credits. The after-school program would be run by a nonprofit chaired by Bachow, largely taught by volunteers using public school facilities.

Bachow said private donors and foundations would pay. Professional educators would develop the standard curriculum. Paid staff would verify attendance and process the credits.

Bachow said he was inspired by an ABC

20/20

program on poor students in Camden and how much pressure they faced to contribute to their family income, causing some to turn to illegal means to make money. His program, while ambitious and idealistic, is untested and unvetted by educators.

Read Knox's proposal at

» READ MORE: www.knoxforphilly.com/learn_to_earn

- Andrew Maykuth

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