Education

Recently, I supported the “Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act,” which enacted comprehensive reforms aimed at strengthening the Head Start program’s teacher and classroom quality, boosting coordination between Head Start and state and local early childhood programs, and increasing Head Start’s financial accountability.  This legislation was signed into law by President Bush on December 12, 2007.

Additionally, I was proud to vote in favor of H.R. 4137, the “College Affordability and Opportunity Act,” which expands college access by keeping college affordable and requires greater college cost transparency.  In addition, it streamlines the federal student financial aid application process; makes textbook costs more manageable for students; allows students to receive Pell Grants year-round; strengthens college readiness programs; increases college aid and support programs for veterans and military families; and strengthens American competitiveness by boosting science, technology, and foreign language educational opportunities.  President Bush signed this legislation into law on August 14, 2008.

There has been much debate regarding the merits of No Child Left Behind.  I will be looking to you in the coming months for guidance on how to proceed on that matter and others relating to our children’s education.  I remain an enthusiastic supporter of the “Academic Partnerships Lead Us to Success Act,” known as A-PLUS, which enhances state and local control over education.  State and local officials need more flexibility to help them tailor programs to more closely meet their students’ unique needs.  A-PLUS allows each state the opportunity to submit to the Secretary of Education a declaration of intent, authorizing the State to assume full responsibility for the educational needs of its students.  Following the declaration, participating states can streamline federal funds and direct them toward state-driven educational programs.  States must submit annual progress reports to parents and taxpayers, thus holding them accountable for student performance.

I have faith in our school boards, administrators, and professional classroom educators and will continue to work as a partner with them to ensure that students in the Second Congressional District receive the highest quality education.