Conference Report on S. 1177, Student Success Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Every Student Succeeds Act to finally address serious flaws in federal education law and reject the old ``one-size-fits-all'' approach while continuing to hold states and schools accountable for the learning of every child. I thank Ranking Member Bobby Scott for his tireless efforts to support students in underserved communities and close the achievement gap.

Today's bill provides needed flexibility in the classroom while maintaining ``guardrails'' to make sure that all students have the opportunity to succeed. It scales back the singular focus on high-stakes testing with a broader and more representative accountability system that will help identify and address gaps. It includes evidence-based interventions for schools where students aren't learning or aren't graduating. And it targets resources to the students who need them most.

The bill allows for funding for critical supports, including mental health, drug and violence prevention, and Youth PROMISE plans. There are resources for a well-rounded education, including arts, geography, history, and foreign language. Dedicated funding is preserved for Promise Neighborhoods and Full-Service Community Schools to coordinate services for children and families, and for afterschool programs to provide out-of-school time opportunities. It will be critical to provide adequate funding for these priorities through the appropriations process.

The Every Student Succeeds Act includes important funding for early childhood education programs that help provide a strong start for children. I strongly support efforts to provide universal pre-K, and today's bill is a good step to improving coordination of early learning opportunities. Today's bill is not perfect, but it is a strong compromise and a critical improvement over current law. As Congress has worked to rewrite this law, I am grateful to the teachers, parents, administrators, school board members, students, and many others in Maryland schools who have shared their experiences and input with me. I look forward to continuing to work with them to ensure that this legislation is implemented and funded in a way that works for our schools and students.

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