Education

The American education system is central to the success of our country and our future prosperity.  I am dedicated to ensuring that we give our children the best education possible, regardless of background.  It is important that Southwest Louisiana youths are successful on an increasingly competitive world stage.  I understand that education policy is an ongoing and ever changing issue that requires patience, feedback from educators, advice from experts and parental empowerment.  We can begin by shifting decision-making power and money from Washington back to people who know the children's names, our teachers and principals.

Boustany Reads to Elementary Students
Boustany Reads to Elementary Students

Head Start Reauthorization

Education begins long before a child enters the classroom; it starts with the parents.  I was proud to work on the bi-partisan Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act in 2007.  This early education reform package is intended to improve the preparation of disadvantaged children, allowing them to compete with their peers. 

Improving Education

Federal funding for education has significantly increased in recent years and Congress must work to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely.  A number of teachers, parents and students have contacted my office with recommendations on ways to improve existing education programs.  This year, during my annual Education Roundtable, I met with more than 40 teachers, principals 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.

Preparing Our Children

By 2018, nearly two-thirds (63%) of new and replacement jobs will require at least some post-secondary education. More than half of those jobs will require a bachelor’s degree or higher.  Today, workers without a college education experience an unemployment rate that is nearly 6 percentage points higher than workers who have earned a bachelor’s degree.  It is vital that our children be prepared for the competitive working world.  This means helping our young scholars attain their full potential by equipping them with the tools and knowledge to thrive in the 21st century.  I am committed to working with students, parents and educators to help make post-secondary education a reality for Southwest Louisianians.

I have and will continue to support a system that empowers teachers, gives choice to parents, and encourages American children to become the best students in the world. 

Below is a list of detailed grant information that may be of help to you:

·         http://afterschool.gov/

·         http://www.cvsnider.com/default.asp?page=132

·         http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osdfs/programs.html

·         http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/trio/index.html

·         http://www.grantsalert.com/index.cfm

A better educational system will create new economic opportunities for Louisiana families.  We must continue striving for better methods and 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.