Dear Friend,
Education has always been the cornerstone of the American dream, opening the door to college, careers, and economic opportunity. But today, federal education policy remains woefully outdated and needs to better support our students and educators.
As the new school year kicks off, Congress is continuing its work on a reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). ESEA, also known as No Child Left Behind (NCLB), has not been updated for nearly 15 years. It's critical that Congress take swift action to replace this outdated law to ensure we're providing students with the college and career-ready skills needed to succeed in a 21st century economy.
Both the House and Senate have passed ESEA reauthorization bills and have announced plans to form a conference committee to work out the bills’ differences. In July, I voted against the House reauthorization (H.R. 5) because I believe it would do more harm than good. That proposal would lock in education cuts for six years and allow resources to be diverted away from the students most in need. Our students deserve better than H.R. 5.
The Senate, on the other hand, passed a bipartisan bill negotiated by Sen. Patty Murray that makes meaningful improvements to our education system. I’m hopeful that any legislation negotiated between the chambers reflects a bipartisan compromise similar to the Senate-passed bill.
It’s my job to help craft policy that works for Washington state. That's why earlier this month, I met with First District teachers and administrators to get their input on these important proposals. We also spoke about the need to reauthorize the Higher Education Act, expand access to quality childcare and early learning programs and address the skyrocketing cost of college.
In the months to come, I will keep working for an ESEA reauthorization that maintains high standards for student achievement, but provides states and districts the tools and flexibility they need to help all kids reach their full potential.
As always, my office is here to serve you. If you have questions or comments about the topics that matter most to you, I encourage you to contact me through my website. You may also keep up-to-date on what I’m doing by following me on Twitter, Instagramand Facebook. If you need assistance dealing with a federal agency, such as the IRS or the VA, please do not hesitate to contact my Bothell office at (425) 485-0085.
Sincerely,
Suzan
