Education

As the son and brother of public school teachers and father of a child in public school, quality education is an issue that is very important to me. For most of the educators and administrators I know, teaching is not just a job, it is a passion. Therefore, I believe that the teachers and administrators who actually work with students understand the needs of those students far better than a bureaucrat in Washington, D.C.

Teachers back home in the 8th district tell me that overbearing Washington regulations hinder their abilities more than they help. Despite tripling overall pupil funding since 1964, academic performance has not improved. Throwing more money at the problems isn't the solution. True positive education reform will involve restoring control at the local level, empowering parents to take an active role in their child's education, and taking our cues from the educators in the classroom–not the bureaucrats in Washington. 

We need to reduce the number of federal programs and leave those matters in the hands of local communities so that they can succeed. I am committed to using my voice in Congress to promote that success and I hope that you will continue to share your ideas with me as we work to improve education for the next generation.