Education

Congress is currently considering legislation to reauthorize the No Child Left Behind Act that was signed into law in 2001.  I have met first-hand with district educators to solicit their views on reauthorization of the NCLB law, including a roundtable discussion with Lubbock ISD teachers and administrators and teacher roundtables in Hereford, Big Spring, Seminole and Abilene. I look forward to hearing more from the parents and educators of the 19th District as Congress continues work on reauthorizing federal elementary and secondary education policies.

In addition, Congress has taken several steps in the past year to better the higher education process. The 19th District is home to a variety of colleges and universities, from 4-year, 2-year and private schools, and I believe a college degree has become the cornerstone of the American dream. Higher education opens the door to job opportunities and professional fulfillment, as well as increased earning power. Yet, even after financial aid is taken into account, Americans find it increasingly difficult to pay for college, and graduates find themselves burdened with high levels of debt. I am concerned about the debt many of our college graduates have once they leave their institutions.

On February 7, 2008 the House passed the College Opportunity and Affordability Act with my support, and this legislation is currently being considered in the Senate.  This legislation amends the Higher Education Act to revise and reauthorize federal government's student aid programs. It also contains provisions that aim to increase transparency in college costs, public and private financial aid, and the accreditation process. In addition, it establishes grant and scholarship programs to encourage institutions and students to focus on the fields of science, technology, engineering, math and foreign language.
 
Whether it is NCLB or other education legislation, I believe local districts and state governments should have greater flexibility and control over how they run their schools. I support greater accountability for both teachers and schools to ensure that each student is learning and encourage parents to take an active role in their children’s education. I also support policies that break down barriers and expand college access for all students, especially low and middle income students.


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