Education

We have a moral obligation to provide our children with the best school systems in the world so they can compete in the global marketplace. With the advice of my wife Betty, a teacher for more than two decades, I have been an ardent advocate for our students. In 2007, I supported legislation that cuts student loan interest rates in half over the next five years, and ensures that borrowers are paying no more than fifteen percent of their income toward student debt. The bill also increases Pell Grant scholarships to $5,200 by 2011, and expands eligibility to help more students. A college education is critical to competing in the global economy. Our country must ensure that students are not being turned away because of cost.

Last year, Congress was scheduled to consider reauthorizing the No Child Left Behind Act.  Unfortunately, that did not occur, and thus, the bill was simply extended.  While I believe the goal of this legislation is noble – to hold schools accountable for students’ performance – there are serious flaws with it. The unfunded mandates are unfair and put an undue burden on state and local governments. I will continue to fight for our education system, and make sure that our teachers, administrators, students and parents have the resources they need to create the next generation of leaders.  I hope comprehensive education legislation is considered in the 111th Congress with a full and open debate.