Education is one of the most valuable gifts we can give our children. I am dedicated to ensuring that we give our children the best education possible. I support education reform that empowers teachers, gives choice to parents, and encourages American children to become the best students in the world. We can begin by shifting decision-making power and money from Washington back to people who know the children's names.
Head Start Reauthorization
As a Member of the Committee on Education and Labor, I’m proud to have served on the committee that negotiated the final version of the Improving Head Start Act. This bill, signed by the President on December 12, 2007, will help prepare Louisiana’s neediest children for Kindergarten by improving their access to medical, nutritional, and educational services – it’s good legislation that will help children in Southwest Louisiana and around the country.
No Child Left Behind (NCLB)
Federal funding for education has significantly increased in recent years, rising from $23 billion in FY 1996 to nearly $60 billion in FY 2007. I continue to hope that the Democrat-controlled Congress will honor its commitment and reauthorize funding for No Child Left Behind. A number of teachers, parents and students have contacted my office with recommendations on ways to improve this program. Last year, during my annual Education Roundtable, I met with more than 60 teachers, principles and superintendents to hear suggestions and feedback. Louisiana educators strengthen our state and inspire students to live up to their full potential. By working together to enhance our state’s education system, we can improve our literacy and graduation rates, bring new jobs and investment to Louisiana, and help our state to compete globally.
Expanding Educational Choices
After Hurricanes Rita and Katrina hit our state, charter schools played a vital role in educating our students and revitalizing our region, especially in the New Orleans area. With this in mind, I introduced the Charter School Program Enhancement Act – legislation to increase awareness of successful charter school best practices and promote additional growth of these highly-successful schools.
A better educational system will create new economic opportunities for Louisiana families. We must continue striving for better results so Louisiana students can succeed in the 21st Century. I want to hear your views. If you would like to speak with my staff about federal education legislation, please contact my Washington, D.C. office at 202-225-2031.
