Math and Science Education

Math and science education is key to our economic success and global competitiveness as a nation. In this column, Congressman Forbes discusses how we can empower our nation’s students to be involved in math and science and how we can provide the tools necessary for our students to excel.

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Closing the Digital Divide Congressman Forbes' legislation passed the House, enabling Historically Black Colleges and Universities to offer the same access to technology as other institutions of higher learning. More...

Increasing Access to Student Loans Congressman Forbes has supported legislation to increase the amount of unsubsidized federal loans a student may be eligible to receive. More...

Funding for BRAC Schools Congressman Forbes has cosponsored a bill to provide grant funding to schools impacted by BRAC. More...

Recognized special education teachers. Congressman Forbes supported a resolution (H.Con.Res.284) that commends special education teachers for the sacrifice they make to provide quality education and life skills to our youth with special needs.  This resolution passed the House by a vote of 415-0.

Supported American Education Week.  Congressman Forbes supported a resolution (H.Res.879), which expresses the House of Representatives' support for the goals and ideals of American Education Week.  This resolution passed the House by a voice vote.

Honored America’s teachers. Congressman Forbes supported a resolution (H.Res.403) establishing National Teacher Day to recognize the critical role teachers play in the education and development of our nation’s children.  This resolution passed the House by a vote of 405-2.

Improving Math and Science Education in America.  Congressman Forbes cosponsored and voted to support a resolution recognizing the need to improve the performance of America's students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, and supporting the ideals of National Lab Day (H.Res.1213). According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs requiring science, engineering or technical training will increase 24 percent between 2004 and 2014 to 6.3 million. However, less than one-third of U.S. 8th-grade students performed at or above a level called “proficient” in mathematics.  This resolution passed the House by a vote of 378-2.

Supported more flexibility for investing in college education.  Congressman Forbes supported the Deposit Restricted Qualified Tuition Programs Act (H.R.4178), which creates a new option for education savings plans that would be designated as bank products — not securities — which would require the FDIC to insure savings placed in the new plans.  Under current law, families can invest money in so-called Section 529 plans, named for the relevant section of tax law, which allow tax-free contributions as savings for higher education.  Because 529 plans are considered securities, they are not insured by the FDIC.  This bill passed the House by voice vote.

Spoke at National Home School Summit.  Congressman Forbes spoke at the Home School Legal Defense Association’s Annual Legislative Summit in Washington, D.C., where he was joined by home school leaders from 31 different states. Congressman Forbes spoke about the work of the Congressional Prayer Caucus, of which he is the Founder and Chairman.

Opposed a one-size-fits-all approach to schools.  Congressman Forbes voted to oppose H.R. 4247 because it would create a one-size-fits-all federal mandate concerning the use of restraints and seclusion in America’s schools.  While Congressman Forbes believes implementing laws to protect our nation’s students is critical, especially for students with physical and mental disabilities, he does not believe such decisions should be made by bureaucrats in Washington.  Virginia, like many other states, already have laws in place governing the use of restraint and seclusion in schools across the Commonwealth.  This bill passed the House by a vote of 262-153.

Supported raising awareness for mentoring. Congressman Forbes voted to support the designation of “National Mentoring Month”, H. Res. 990, to highlight the critical role mentors play in helping young people realize their potential.
This legislation passed by a vote of 398-0.

Honored the contributions of Catholic schools. Congressman Forbes supported the goals of Catholic Schools Week and recognized the contributions of thousands of Catholic elementary and high schools in the country, H. Res. 1008.  This resolution was approved by voice vote.

Commended worker training efforts. Congressman Forbes supported H.Res. 880, which recognizes the efforts of career and technical colleges to train workers in high-demand industries. This resolution passed by a vote of 409-0.

Supported gambling prevention research. Congressman Forbes cosponsored H.R. 2906, which would fund prevention messages, gambling treatment methods, and research into the causes of gambling addiction.

Encouraged literacy among teenagers. Congressman Forbes voted for H. Res. 836 to support the goals and ideals of Teen Read Week. The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) reports that over the last 20 years there have been only modest gains in reading achievement in the United States. Teen Read Week encourages reading programs for teens in schools, public libraries, and bookstores.  The resolution passed the House by a vote of 405-0. 

Recognized the contributions of school principals. Congressman Forbes voted for H.Res. 811 to designate October 2009 as National Principals Month.  The resolution passed the House by a vote of 411-0.   

Called for the removal of School Safety Czar Kevin Jennings. Congressman Forbes sent a letter to President Obama expressing his concerns with the appointment of Kevin Jennings as Assistant Deputy Secretary for the Office of Safe and Drug Free Schools. There is growing concern that Mr. Jennings lacks the appropriate qualifications and ethical standards to serve in this important position.

Applauded federal funding for Virginia State University math and science study. Congressman Forbes announced that Virginia State University (VSU) has been awarded a grant through the National Science Foundation in the amount of $989,747. The award will be used to fund a three year study by VSU and Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) aimed at improving test scores for minority students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.  The study will assess the impact of alternative learning methods on 240 underrepresented sixth and ninth graders residing in central Virginia school districts.

Supported adult education and literacy. Congressman Forbes supported H. Res 707, which designates the week of September 13 as National Adult Education & Literacy Week. Over 90 million American adults lack basic literacy, numeracy, and English language skills. This resolution encourages support for adult education and family literacy programs. The resolution passed the House by a vote of 412-0.  

Providing Resources for Teachers.  Congressman Forbes cosponsored H.R. 2329, which would allow teachers to be reimbursed for out-of-pocket school supply expenses. Specifically, the bill would extend through 2011 the tax deduction of up to $250 for teachers when they purchase classroom materials using their own money. According to a recent national study, teachers spend an average of $493 out of pocket on school supplies each year for their own classrooms. 

Called for financial literacy education for children. Congressman Forbes cosponsored H.R. 3037, which would establish pilot programs to teach financial literacy in elementary and secondary schools. Funding will be used to provide 10 grants of $250,000 each to local school districts to teach financial literacy.

Celebrated the artwork of Chesterfield students. Congressman Forbes participated in the opening of the Department of Education’s Student Art Exhibit, which is publicly featuring artwork from Chesterfield County students. The exhibit is on display now at the Department of Education headquarters building in Washington DC.

Supported teaching the Constitution to high school students.  H. Res. 686 seeks to ensure that high school students have an effective understanding of the Constitution before reaching voting age. This resolution passed the House unanimously.

Supported bringing awareness to the Constitution and Bill of Rights. Congressman Forbes agreed to serve on the Honorary Congressional Advisory Committee established by the National Education Project, an organization committed to creating a renewed awareness of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights in our country.  Constitution Day, the anniversary of the 1787 signing by thirty-nine men in Philadelphia, PA, was celebrated September 17.

Voted against a government takeover of student loans.  H.R. 3221 would eliminate the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) program, which are private loans subsidized by the federal government, and shift all student loans to a government-run and taxpayer financed system through the Direct Loan program (DL). Congressman Forbes released the following statement regarding the legislation: “Congress has gotten into a bad habit of instituting government-takeovers as a tool to address national challenges. The student loan bill today was no different – it would have placed our student loan system entirely in the federal government’s hands. While I have made it a priority to increase access to student loans by lowering student loan interest rates, increasing the Pell Grant award per student, and providing grants to students who commit to teaching in high-need subject, I could not support the continued and deliberate government-takeover of private industry.”   This bill passed the House by a vote of 253 - 171.

Voted against reducing funding for community colleges. Congressman Forbes voted against an amendment that would have eliminated $7 billion in funding for community colleges. The amendment failed to pass the House by a vote of 126 - 301.

Supported access to student loans.  Congressman Forbes voted for continued private lending in student loans and to increase the amount of money available to college students for loans. This amendment would also have established a commission to develop a new model for private lending.  The amendment failed to pass the House by a vote of 165 - 265.

Recognized the contributions that coaches make in the lives of participants of organized sports. Congressman Forbes supported H. Res. 6, recognizing National Coaches Appreciation Week. It is estimated that 42 million American children participate in organized sports each year.  This bill passed the House unanimously.

Promoted new programs for science and technology education. Congressman Forbes voted for H.R.1709 to establish a committee within the National Science and Technology Council to coordinate programs aimed at promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. 

Supported increased safety for schoolchildren. Congressman Forbes voted for H.R.729 to require schools sponsoring off-premises overnight field trips to develop and provide to parents whose children are to be taken on such trips written safety plans. The plans include policies on curfews, room checks, and chaperone qualifications; and emergency procedures to be followed when a serious injury or death occurs.

Promoted safe internet use for students. Congressman Forbes voted for H.R.780 to allow educational agencies to use state grants under the Enhancing Education through Technology program, the Safe and Drug-Free Schools, and Communities program to develop and implement programs promoting safe internet use by students.

Recognized National Physical Education and Sport Week. Congressman Forbes supported H.Res.503 to recognize the central role of physical education and sports in creating a healthy lifestyle for all children, while encouraging schools to implement local wellness and physical education policies. 

Recognized the significant accomplishments of the AmeriCorps. Congressman Forbes voted for H.Res.453 to encourage all citizens to join in a national effort to salute AmeriCorps members and alumni, and raise awareness about the importance of national and community service.

Supported literacy awareness. Congressman Forbes supported H.Res. 232, honoring the Toys for Tots Literacy program.  This resolution commends Toys for Tots for raising awareness of illiteracy, promoting children's literacy, and fighting poverty through the support of literacy. 

Opposed H. R. 2187, the 21^st Century Green High-Performing Public School Facilities Act. This bill spends $32 billion over five years in federal funding for something that has, until now, been a state and local responsibility—local public school construction projects. This bill would help nationalize and regulate school construction projects; threaten state, local, and private support for educational infrastructure; jeopardize Congress' ability to reduce federal spending; dramatically increase the cost of building schools, and siphon resources from longstanding education priorities without improving academic achievement.

Cosponsored H. Res. 438 to express support for designation of September as "National Child Awareness Month.”

Supported a program to help veterans begin second careers as teachers. Congressman Forbes cosponsored H.R. 1313, which would amend the Troops to Teachers program to allow 49% more schools to be eligible to participate in the program. Troops to Teachers is a unique program that provides veterans with stipends to help cover the costs of teaching certification in exchange for service in an eligible school. Since its authorization in 1993, nearly 10,000 troops have participated in the Troops to Teachers program - bringing important math, science, and foreign language expertise to our classrooms.  

Supported mentoring programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Congressman Forbes voted on H.R. 1824, the Best Buddies Empowerment for People with Intellectual Disabilities Act of 2009, which would expand and develop the Best Buddies program. The Best Buddies program is the first national social and recreational mentoring program for people with intellectual disabilities and operates on 1,300 middle school, high school, and college campuses.  This bill would award grants to organizations that work with Best Buddies to carry out activities to promote the expansion of the program. Such activities include expanding the participation of people with intellectual disabilities in "social relationships," as well as education and employment.

Voted against subsidies for wasteful programs. Congressman Forbes opposed H.R. 1388, which would approve $8.7 billion to provide subsidies for volunteers. The Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education Act stretches the definition of “volunteer” by providing government subsidies to volunteers for stipends, health benefits, housing, and other benefits. Additionally, this bill does not restrict organizations indicted for voter fraud, such as ACORN, and organizations that provide or promote abortion services from receiving assistance. H.R. 1388 would largely expand national service programs and create new programs, despite the fact that some of the programs funded by this bill have been deemed by the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) as ineffective. 

Opposed H.R. 1388, which would have spent $6 billion to provide subsidies for volunteers. The Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education Act stretches the definition of “volunteer” by providing government subsidies to volunteers for stipends, health benefits, housing, and other items. This bill would hugely expand national service programs and create new programs with a goal of increasing the number of volunteers in service programs, despite the fact that some of the programs funded by this bill have been deemed by the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) as ineffective.  

Voted in favor of H.Res. 146 honoring the 12th anniversary of “Read Across America Day.”  This resolution also honors Theodor Geisel – Dr. Seuss – for encouraging children of all ages to discover the joy of reading, and encourages parents to read with their children. 

Voted in favor of H.Res. 77 congratulating the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia, for more than 100 years of leadership and service in its local community, Virginia, and the United States. 

Sent a letter welcoming prospective math and science teachers to Virginia for the 14^th Annual NASA-Pre-Service Teacher STEM Training Workshop.  For 14 years, the Pre-Service Teacher STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Program has been instrumental in developing training methods for prospective math and science teachers in our Nation’s universities.  This workshop helps to ensure our schools are sufficiently prepared to teach STEM courses and develop the next generation of American scientists, engineers, and mathematicians.  This workshop provides a unique opportunity for educators to share ideas about programs that afford students opportunities to improve their skills in STEM disciplines. 

Voted in favor of H.R. 6890, legislation that would allow emergency aid to storm-damaged schools. H.R. 6890 would allow the Department of Education to circumvent funding restrictions for schools affected by the recent hurricanes. This measure would extend, until Sept. 30, 2009, the Secretary of Education’s authority to waive a requirement that school districts use federal funds only to supplement, rather than replace, state and local funds for assistance to students affected by hurricanes along the Gulf of Mexico coast. This legislation would help schools in storm-ravaged regions continue on the road to recovery by devoting funds to their most immediate needs. 

Supported H. Res. 1463 recognizing the benefits of service-learning as a teaching strategy to effectively engage youth in the community and classroom, and supporting the goals of the National Learn and Serve Challenge.

Voted in favor of H.R. 642, the College Fire Prevention Act, which would direct grants to private or public colleges or universities, fraternities, or sororities to install fire sprinkler systems and other fire suppression/prevention technologies.  

Cosponsored H. Con. Res. 416 commending the Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Virginia on the occasion of its 75^th Anniversary. The Barter Theatre was founded in 1933 in the midst of the Great Depression when few people could afford to attend a theater performance. Founder Robert Porterfield created a novel arrangement in which patrons could view live theater performances in exchange for fresh produce or livestock, inspiring the name “Barter Theatre.” 

Voted in favor of the Conference Report on H.R. 4137, the Higher Education Opportunity Act, which reauthorizes federal college student financial aid programs for the next five years. It gradually increases the maximum Pell grant to $8,000 from the current level of $5,800. The measure also directs the Education Department to provide an online price index that would help students and parents compare costs at different colleges.

Applauded the inclusion of H.R. 694, the “Digital Divide” bill in the Conference Report on H.R. 4137, Higher Education Opportunity Act. The provision will establish a new Minority Serving Institution (MSI) grant program to help Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic Serving Institutions, and Tribal Colleges bridge the economic opportunity gap. The grant program was originally introduced by Congressman Forbes and Congressman Edolphus Towns (D-NY) as H.R. 921 three years ago. “Bridging the digital divide has been a priority for me throughout my time in Congress. Full access to technology is a standard component of success in today’s business world. Integrating technology into our nation’s Minority Serving Institutions will strengthen the overall workforce and allow students from these institutions to compete equally with students from other universities to qualify for America’s best paying jobs,” Forbes said. “…now we are just a few steps away from seeing this important piece of legislation become law.”

Supported House passage of H.Res. 1286, which recognizes the vital role that arts and arts education plays in the lives of Americans and urges the support of increased art training and appreciation in our Nation’s schools.  Furthermore, this resolution celebrates the 20th anniversary of the National Black Arts Festival and honors the significant contributions of African-American art to the culture of America. 

Voted in favor of H.Res. 1311, which expresses support for the designation of National GEAR UP Day to recognize the success of the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP).  GEAR UP, established by Congress in 1998, provides grants to low income middle and high schools to increase graduation rates and the number of disadvantaged students who enroll and succeed in college.  GEAR UP currently assists 640,000 students in 46 States and was funded at $303.4 million in FY2006, FY2007, and FY2008.

Voted in favor of H.R. 6889, which would extend, until July 1, 2010, the temporary authority to the Secretary of Education to purchase loans from lenders in the federal guaranteed loan program to ensure that lenders have access to capital to make new loans. This authority was first granted to the Secretary pursuant to H.R. 5715, the Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act of 2008, legislation which Congressman Forbes supported. H.R. 5715 increased the annual loan limits on federal unsubsidized student loans by $2,000 for all students in good academic standing. 

Opposed H.R. 3036, the No Child Left Inside Act of 2008, which would reauthorize the National Environmental Education Act (NEEA), originally passed in 1990, and create a new grant program at the Department of Education focused on promoting environmental education at the K-12 levels. Congressman Forbes opposed this bill because it would unnecessarily expand the federal government’s role in education and increase the national education budget through a new grant program. The NEEA already requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to provide leadership to “increase environmental literacy” and mandates that the EPA make environmental education in schools a priority. Although Congressman Forbes believes that environmental education is important now and for future generations, H.R. 3036 duplicates the efforts of the NEEA and is an unnecessary expansion of federal education policy. Many states are already implementing similar grant programs without the direct approval and funding from the federal government.  

Cosponsored H.R. 6293, the Military Children’s School Investment Act, which would provide grant funding to schools affected by Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) and Global Rebasing to meet their construction needs. H.R. 6293 would authorize the Secretary of Education to award grants to local educational agencies experiencing an enrollment increase related to military base closures and realignments or global rebasing, force structure changes or reductions, or actions initiated by the Secretary of Defense. The grants authorized under H.R. 6293 would be used: (1) to construct new schools or expand existing schools to accommodate the influx of students; (2) repair or upgrade academic facilities; or (3) lease, with the Secretary’s approval, buildings or portions of buildings from a private entity for additional school space. The most recent BRAC round will more than double the population of Ft. Lee, Virginia and such grants would help local school systems keep up with space and facilities for students.

Opposed H.R. 3021, the 21st Century Green High-Performing Public School Facilities Act.  This bill would provide $6.4 billion in federal funding for something that has, until now, been a state and local responsibility—local public school construction projects.  It also mandates that schools that plan to utilize these federal funds must use 90% of all funds for energy efficient and certified “green building” modernizations, renovations, and repairs, which would prohibit them from using grant funds to pay for the cost of building maintenance, other needed renovations, or rising energy and fuel costs.

Voted in favor of H.Res. 1142, a resolution recognizing National Missing Children’s Day and reminding Americans to remember the children who are still missing and to continue efforts to reunite them with their families.

Supported House passage of H.Res. 952, which expresses support for a National Teachers Day to recognize our nation’s teachers each year.  As a cosponsor of this resolution, Rep. Forbes believes it imperative to honor our children’s teachers for their selfless dedication, knowledge, and sacrifice. 

Supported House passage of H.R. 5715, the Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act of 2008. The bill would increases the annual loan limits on federal unsubsidized student loans by $2,000 for all students in good academic standing.  Additionally, this legislation would allow parents who have been delinquent on their home mortgage or medical bills for up to 180 days to still qualify for a parent PLUS loan.  H.R. 5715 also would give the Secretary of Education the temporary authority to purchase loans from lenders in the federal guaranteed loan program to ensure that lenders have access to capital to make new loans.

Supported House passage of H.Res. 1097, which expresses support for the designation of April 2008, as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The intent would be to raise awareness of the traumatic situation facing some of our Nation’s children and to emphasize our commitment to preventing child abuse and neglect so that all children can live in a healthy and nurturing environment.

Supported House passage of H.Res. 259, a resolution honoring the work of the Meals On Wheels Association of America, its member senior nutrition programs throughout the country, and their annual March For Meals campaigns for providing meal services to people in need.  

Signed a letter to House Conferees on the College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2007, H.R. 4137, in support of a modeling and simulation grant program, H.R. 4165.  H.R. 4165 provides grants to encourage and enhance the study of modeling and simulation (M&S) at institutions of higher education.  Congressman Forbes is Founder and Co-Chairman of the Congressional Modeling and Simulation Caucus.

Signed a letter to House Conferees on the College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2007, H.R. 4137, in support of The Minority Serving Institution (MSI) Digital and Wireless Technology Opportunity Act of 2007.  The MSI Act establishes a new grant program that provides up to $250 million per year for five years to strengthen the ability of MSIs to purchase wireless network technologies and other information communications technology to increase engineering, math and science research.

Voted for an amendment to H.R. 5501 to encourage partnerships between African postsecondary educational institutions and U.S. colleges and universities, particularly Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).  This amendment will enable these institutions to coordinate efforts to strengthen the health systems of African host countries and train medical professionals to help fight the global HIV/AIDS pandemic.

Supported House passage of H.Res. 1013, which expresses the sense of Congress that providing breakfast in schools through the National School Breakfast Program has a positive impact on classroom performance.

Supported House passage of H.Res. 978, which designates the week of March 3-7, 2008, as “School Social Work Week” to promote awareness of the vital role of school social workers in helping students prepare for their future as productive citizens.

Supported House passage of H.Res. 930, which designates February as “Career and Technical Education Month” and recognizes the importance of career and technical education in preparing a well-educated and skilled workforce in America.

Cosponsored H.Res. 952, which expresses the sense of Congress that there should be a National Teacher Day to recognize our nation’s teachers each year.

Supported House passage of H.R. 4137, the College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2007, which reauthorizes the federal government's major federal student aid programs.  H.R. 4137 raises the maximum Pell Grant award per student to $9,000 from $5,800, and increases the funding level for Historically Black Colleges and Universities from $300 million to $500 million.  To benefit military families, the bill provides in-state tuition rates to dependents of military service members within their current state of residence, provided they have lived in that state for at least 30 days, and allows the dependent to retain this tuition rate through graduation. 

Applauded the inclusion of a modeling and simulation grant program, H.R. 4165, within H.R. 4137, the College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2007.  H.R. 4165 provides grants to encourage and enhance the study of modeling and simulation (M&S) at institutions of higher education.  Congressman Forbes is Founder and Co-Chairman of the Congressional Modeling and Simulation Caucus, and is also leading the 3^rd Annual Modeling and Simulation Leadership Summit on February 11, 2008.  The Summit will be held in the Hampton Roads area, and will focus on M&S as it relates to education.

Applauded the inclusion of The Minority Serving Institution (MSI) Digital and Wireless Technology Opportunity Act of 2007 within H.R. 4137, the College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2007.  The MSI Act establishes a new grant program that provides up to $250 million per year for 5 years to strengthen the ability of MSIs to purchase wireless network technologies and other information communications technology to increase engineering, math and science research.  The MSI Act bridges the digital divide by enabling these institutions to offer students the same access to technology as their peers at other institutions of higher learning.  MSIs are a category of educational institutions that includes Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions, and Tribal Colleges and Universities.  Less than half of MSI students own computers and 88% of HBCUs have only the minimum standard of connectivity.  Additionally, while over 60 percent of the U.S. population uses the Internet at home, only 37 percent of Hispanics and 46 percent of African Americans have Internet access at home.  Congressman Forbes first introduced the MSI grant program bill in 2003, and has introduced it in every subsequent Congress.  To read more about Congressman Forbes' thoughts on the MSI grant program, click here.

Cosponsored H.R. 4165, which would provide grants to encourage and enhance the study of modeling and simulation at colleges and universities. The bill would make grants of $750,000 available to schools that already have an established modeling and simulation program and also to schools that wish to establish a new program. The bill would require schools to develop matching funds as well to demonstrate their commitment to the project. Congressman Forbes is co-chairman of the Modeling & Simulation Caucus.

Voted in favor of H.R. 1429, the Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007. H.R. 1429 amends the 1965 Head Start Act to revise and reauthorize Head Start programs, the nation’s primary early childhood development program for low-income youth. Specifically, this legislation increases funding by $450 million to $7.35 billion for fiscal year 2008, increases the number of qualified children by raising the eligibility to 130% above the poverty level, and requires that at least 50 percent of Head Start teachers programs must have a baccalaureate or advanced degree in early childhood education. Moreover, H.R. 1429 codifies the provision which allows faith-based organizations to be Head Start agencies, and establishes a new grant program where successful Head Start agencies are designated as Center for Excellence responsible for providing and disseminating best practices for achieving early academic success to other Head Start agencies in the State.

Co-Sponsored H.R. 2588, the Comprehensive Coverdell Modernization Act, which contains three provisions to keep Coverdell Education Savings Agreements (ESAs) a viable option for families’ long-term financial planning for educational expenses by accounting for the growing rate of inflation and increased tuition costs. Specifically, the Comprehensive Coverdell Modernization Act would double the current after-tax contribution limit to $4,000 from $2,000.

Supported the conference report to H.R. 2669, College Cost Reduction Act of 2007, which provides a $1,900 increase (over a five year period) per student who receives a Pell Grant, a federal grant program that allocates funds to students who demonstrate financial need. In addition, this legislation would lower student loan interest rates to 3.4 percent, provide $4,000 grants to promising students who committed to teaching high-need subjects, and provide $510 million to a grant program for schools that serve minorities.

Voted in favor of H.R. 2669, the College Cost Reduction Act, which would provide a $500 increase per student who receives a Pell Grant, a federal grant program that allocates funds to students who demonstrate financial need. In addition, this legislation would lower student loan interest rates to 3.2%.

Supported H.R. 1469, the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Foundation Act of 2007, which would create a foundation that would award grants for students to study overseas, with particular emphasis on students studying in nontraditional overseas locations.

Passed H.R. 2272, 21st Century Competitiveness Act of 2007, which establishes science, mathematics, education, engineering, technology, research, and training programs at the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Voted in favor of H.R. 1429, the Improving Head Start Act. This bill would allow for continuation and improvement of the Head Start program, within the Department of Health and Human Services, beginning in 2008 through 2012. In order to strengthen Head Start, this legislation emphasizes school preparation for disadvantaged children, strengthens academic quality standards and improves the management and transparency of the Head Start program. Since 1965, Head Start has provided comprehensive early childhood services to low-income preschool children and their families.

Applauded passage of H.Con.Res. 121, legislation recognizing the benefits and importance of school-based music education. The resolution asserts the importance of music education in the development of critical thinking, creative problem-solving, effective communication and teamwork skills, and how those benefits can increase student achievement in other academic areas to better prepare them for entrance in a competitive workplace.

Voted in favor of H.R. 362, the 10,000 Teachers, 10 Million Minds Science and Math Scholarship Act, legislation that seeks to increase U.S. math and science teachers by 10,000 each year, through scholarships to science, math and engineering students who commit to becoming science or math teachers at elementary and secondary schools upon completion of their degrees.

Voted in favor of H.R. 363, the Sowing the Seeds Through Science and Engineering Research Act, which would provide federal support for young scientists and engineers performing research at higher education institutions to ensure that the next generation of high-tech industries and products are developed in the U.S. It would also provide additional resources to an existing National Science Foundation program to help researchers establish a lab to pursue innovative research in emerging fields.

Cosponsored H.R. 1622, which would provide a waiver for Virginia schools from the sanctions of No Child Left Behind (NCLB) for schools that are deemed "failing" under NCLB. Schools would be eligible for this waiver if they meet a particular criteria and receive approval from the Governor. This legislation allows Virginia schools that are struggling with the current Limited English Proficiency (LEP) standard to be released from the burden of NCLB sanctions.

Cosponsored H.R. 1486, the Empowering Parents Through Choice Act. This legislation would provide an option for low-income students attending a school that has been deemed as failing according to No Child Left Behind. It would provide the students with $4,000 in funding to attend a private school or to support supplemental education, such as tutoring programs and other academic assistance.

Cosponsored the Flexibility for Champion Schools Act. This bill would allow more flexibility to states under No Child Left Behind. Under the proposed legislation, the Department of Education would grant waivers to states that establish their own standards, set pass-rate goals and hold schools accountable for progress. Virginia's Standards of Learning (SOL), the state's yearly progress standards, have proven successful in academic standards and student testing. Meeting both federal and state standards often becomes repetitive and expensive for states that already employ state standards that are often higher than the federal requirements.

Cosponsored H.R. 686, which will create a permanent tuition deduction for qualified taxpayers on post-secondary education. This legislation would allow families and individuals to continue taking a deduction of up to $4,000 for qualifying education expenses.

Cosponsored the National Science Education Tax Incentive for Businesses Act of 2007, H.R. 37. This bill would provide benefits for both businesses and students, allowing a 100 percent tax credit for businesses when they donate items to schools such as computers, microscopes or other laboratory equipment. This tax credit also includes training opportunities businesses provide for teachers, such as externships, related to science, mathematics, technology and engineering.

Met with engineering deans from six Virginia colleges to discuss the future of math, science, and engineering education. Among the topics discussed were how to encourage middle school-aged children to become interested in math and science, how to encourage our college freshman to stay enrolled in engineering programs, and how to best encourage and position America as a force in the fields of math, science, and engineering.

Hailed the passage of H. Res. 182, a resolution to congratulate Virginia State University (VSU) on their 125th anniversary. The resolution, introduced by Congressman Forbes, passed on March 6, 2007, the very date of the anniversary. VSU President Eddie Moore joined Congressman Forbes in Washington, D.C. last week, for the occasion.

Cosponsored H.Res. 135, legislation that would create a National Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Week. During this week, HBCUs would be recognized for their achievements in higher education and their prominent role in the history of the United States. There are 103 HBCUs in the United States.

Joined Congressman Ed Towns (D-NY) in sending a letter to other Members of Congress urging their support of The Minority Serving Institution Digital and Wireless Opportunity Act, which would help eliminate the technology gap at Minority Serving Institutions.

Voted in favor of the College Student Relief Act of 2007, which would lower the interest rate on undergraduate subsidized loans from 6.8% to 3.4% over a period of five years.