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Hanaway outlines economic development plan

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – At a gubernatorial forum in Jefferson City Thursday morning, former Speaker Catherine Hanaway proposed an economic development policy should she win the race for governor. The policy emphasizes workplace and college readiness, skills-based education focus in high schools and community colleges, and statewide high school high-speed internet access.

Hanaway argues that economic development starts with education. She says that Missouri currently lacks focus on providing the skills necessary for students to succeed in the current work environment.

“My plan is to couple next generation educational modalities with enhanced support for vocational training, which together will allow Missouri to develop and cultivate a more highly skilled workforce, drawing increased investment, employment, and economic growth to our great state,” she said. “We also need to promote the dignity of work to our young people, encouraging them to take on tough courses in school and breaking societal prejudices around skilled labor and technical professions.”

Hanaway also said that a lack of investment in science, technology, engineering and math education has also hurt the state’s future workers.

“It is time we provide our children with an education that will allow them to succeed in the competitive marketplaces of the future,” Hanaway said. “Let’s get Missouri back to work again by giving young Missourians the educational tools they need to thrive in the workplace.”