Education

K-12 Education

The American education system is in crisis and it is in need of serious reform. For far too long, political leaders have tried to dictate to teachers and schools what they need to accomplish. This kind of micro managing is not working, and we need to do right by our children and work to reform the system of education in the United States.

The most practical way to begin this process is to restore much of the power and funding to the state and local levels. Not all school districts across the country are the equal. In fact, not all of the school districts in the 8th District of Tennessee are the equal. Each has its own unique student body and its own unique needs, and conforming to a national standard may not be in the best interest of those students. If the decisions about curriculum were left to the states or local institutions of government to decide, more effective methods could be created for the education of the youth of Tennessee.

I will work hard to return federal money to the states, and to give parents and students more say in the education process by advocating for school choice and charter schools, both of which will provide greater opportunities for the families and students in the 8th District of Tennessee.

Higher Education Reform

I will also work to help bring the ever-rising cost of higher education under control. The world is a competitive place, and to ensure that America remains competitive, it is important that our children receive some sort of higher education, whether that’s a four-year degree from a university or a job-training program at a local community college. The rising cost of college could put that ability out of the reach of many middle and low-income families. For those who do attend college, graduates have an average of $23,000 in student debt, making it difficult for them to start adult life on the right foot. We need to ensure that the youth of our nation have the tools necessary to stay competitive in the world, and affordable access to higher education will accomplish that goal.

See also information on student financial aid.

I support the following legislation:

• H.R. 5, Student Success Act (passed House)
• H.R. 1911, Smarter Solutions for Students Act (became law)
• H.R. 803: SKILLS ACT (passed House)