Education
I believe it is imperative in today’s global economy that we provide our children with access to education that prepares them to succeed in a world where technology evolves every day.
“Our teachers have nobly accepted the serious responsibility to educate our children and help them develop into successful, productive citizens…They’re paying for basic supplies such as paper, pencils, and scissors out of their own pockets - stepping up because they’re committed to providing students the best education possible. It’s critical that we stand alongside our teachers and demonstrate our continued commitment to their efforts.” – Dave Reichert 5/5/2011
Dave with students from Mount Tahoma High
If America is to remain the global economic leader, we must continue investing in math and science education. The foundation of innovation lies in a motivated, well-educated workforce equipped with science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills. But the United States is the leader in innovation because we also teach our children to be independent, critical thinkers — to challenge the status quo. We must continue to equip students with strong reading, writing and analytical skills.
Improving education is one of my top priorities in Congress. During my time in Congress, I have consistently supported legislation that strengthens and provides adequate resources for educational programs such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, early childhood education, and student financial aid. I have also recently re-introduced the Teacher Tax Relief Act (H.R. 1738) which would provide needed tax relief for our nation’s educators and support their professional developments pursuits.
In the past three years, I am proud to have passed three separate measures to strengthen public education. In the 110th Congress, I introduced both an amendment to reduce class sizes as well as an amendment to increase resources for the Supporting Teens Through Education and Protection (STEP) program. The STEP program helps schools collaborate with local domestic violence and sexual assault service providers, law enforcement agencies, courts and other organizations to reduce teen violence and improve school safety. In the 111th Congress, I passed an amendment to provide resources to schools to assist with school emergency response preparation in the case of campus violence, acts of terrorism, and natural disasters.
It is time government lives up to the promises that are made to our children and teachers; meet the commitment to special education; ensure that every child is taught by a highly qualified teacher; engage and involve parents; continue working to reduce class sizes; and increase school safety so that children are taught in an environment conducive to learning.
If we hope to overcome the economic and social challenges facing our country today, investment in education must remain a top priority. Quality education is crucial to the development of the individual and is clearly linked to the future security, economic and social health of our democracy. Rest assured, I will continue standing firm; working to provide our schools and teachers with the resources they need to graduate students ready to lead our country.
Congressman Reichert is actively working in the House to:
- Improve School Safety and Prevent Teen Dating Violence, Harassment, and Bullying
- Provide Tax Relief for Educators and Support Professional Development
- Create Greater Opportunities for Under served Students
- Strengthen STEM Education
- Make College More Affordable
- Support Rural and Federally Impacted Schools
- Encourage Innovation in Public Schools and Stronger Parental Engagement
Education Caucus Membership:
Congressional Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education Caucus
Impact Aid Coalition Caucus
Congressional Community College Caucus
House Impact Aid Coalition
Congressional Arts Caucus