Each and every student deserves the best education possible so that they can look with hope to the future ahead of them.  Providing that education for our children is impossible without quality teachers. 

In order to attract and retain the best and brightest to our schools, we need to help ease the financial strain felt by so many teachers.  It is estimated that the average teacher spends $521 out of their own pockets for classroom supplies.  Several years ago, Congress passed a provision to allow teachers to take an above-the-line deduction for classroom expenses of up to $250.  The Teacher Tax Relief Act would increase that deduction to $400, expand the allowable expenses to include professional development and make the tax relief permanent.

As a cosponsor of this common-sense tax relief, I hope to see it come before the House for a vote.  Teachers give so much of their selves, their time, and often their money to educate our young ones.  Its time we offer relief to some of the most important and influential folks in this country.