As a mother of three children who have all attended public schools, I understand the importance of a quality public education. I have also seen the unique educational needs facing our nation’s rural schools. I believe school districts’ individual needs are managed best at the state and local level with the cooperation of parents, teachers and local officials.

As Congress continues to work on reforming education policies, I will continue to work for what’s best for South Dakota’s teachers and students. My assignment to the Education and Workforce Committee gives me unique opportunities to impact decisions related to education in South Dakota.

I have also worked on bipartisan legislation to provide critical assistance to school districts that lack resources due to a federal presence and the resulting diminished property tax base. These are critical funds for several South Dakota school districts and reforms to the program are needed.