|
Hillsboro, OR – Today Congressman David Wu, the Oregon Education Association, Portland Community College representatives, school district representatives and teachers collaboratively voiced their concerns about President Bush’s proposed cuts to federal education funding.
“During President Bush's State of the Union address in January we all heard him talk about keeping the American economy competitive," stated Congressman Wu. "But weeks later we learn the Bush administration is cutting billions from federal educational funding for America's students. The reality is that President Bush is turning his back on education and opportunity.”
In Oregon, the President's budget would cut funding for No Child Left Behind by $40 million; special education programs by $59.8 million; and important vocational education programs by $88.5 million, all over the next five years.
Congressman Wu is already fighting these cuts and has gathered support for increasing, rather than decreasing, federal education funding. To date, 55 other members of Congress have signed onto a letter written by Congressman Wu asking for a $14 billion increase in federal education funding. Congressman Wu believes additional investments in education are essential if we are to close achievement gaps and maximize the academic potential of every student.
Congressman Wu added, "We need a budget that reflects our priorities, and ensuring all children receive a quality education should be a top priority. Education is the best investment we can make in our children and for our future.”
Today's event was held at Hillsboro High School, inside the Industrial and Technology Education Program classroom. Congressman Wu spoke among eager students learning about electronics and 3-D computer design.
The program is funded by the federal Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act that President Bush has proposed to cut. The Perkins Act serves more than 10 million Americans across the country, and it serves the students at Hillsboro High School who stand to lose unless Congress is successful at blocking the cuts. Oregon received nearly $16 million in Perkins grants in fiscal year 2005.
Congressman Wu closed his remarks today by asserting that "we can and must do better for ourselves and our children."
### |
