Issue Position: Elementary and Secondary Education

Issue Position

When Congress enacted the No Child Left behind law in 2002, it created more accountability and additional resources for state and local schools to ensure that all American children get a quality education. Over the last eight years, it is clear that some aspects of this law have worked, while others have not been as effective. As Congress begins to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary School Act this year, it is my hope that members of both parties will develop a plan to give local schools more control, but still ensure that every student has access to a high quality education.

I also believe that it is imperative that Congress keep its promise and fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which is the major federal statute for the education of children with disabilities. IDEA both authorizes federal funding for special education and related services and, for states that accept these funds, sets out principles under which special education and related services are to be provided. The requirements in this law are detailed and numerous, so it is vital that the federal government do its part to ensure that schools have the right tools to carry out these federal mandates.

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