Setting Our Kids Up For Success
Statement
Friend-
This week I had the chance to visit some of the public schools in Virginia's First District as we begin a new school year.
I was able to speak at the opening of the newly constructed Colonial Beach Elementary school, and congratulate all involved, as this new facility is sure to help all the children who call this school home flourish in their education.
The Richmond County School system hosted me as this year's convocation speaker to address the future of our nation's public school system. I highlighted some of the legislation passed by the House in the past few years to help better prepare our students for the 21st Century workforce through STEM education, on the job training, partnership with the private sector, and dual enrollment courses.
I strongly believe our education system is the most effective, and serves our children best, when the federal footprint in education is reduced, local control is restored, and parents and local education leaders are empowered to hold schools accountable for effectively teaching students.
Over the last two years the House has worked to retool and improve our education system and I have been proud support two major efforts:
The Every Students Succeeds Act
* Ended the era of federally mandated testing under No Child Left behind.
* Provided much needed professional development training to a Science, Technology, Math and Engineering (STEM) educators and allowed greater access for school districts to funding to support STEM programs and activities.
* Allows for alternative certification for STEM educators.
Strengthening Career and Technical Education Act
* Helps more students enter the workforce with the knowledge and skills they need to compete for good-paying in demand jobs critical to the economy.
* Supports innovative learning opportunities, through building better community partnerships and encouraging stronger engagement with employers.
While we are headed in the right direction, more should and can be done to better prepare our students for the workforce. As the husband of a school teacher, I'll continue working on efforts to improve education for the betterment of our nation's children.
Sincerely,
Rob
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