50th Anniversary of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965

Floor Speech

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Ms. LINDA T. SÁNCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on the 50th Anniversary of the landmark legislation: The Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. When this bill was signed into law 50 years ago, President Johnson understood that ``full educational opportunity'' should be our nation's primary goal. This momentous legislation affirmed that every child has an equal right to a quality education regardless of zip code.

Our public education system has come a long way since 1965, and though we have made great strides in closing achievement gaps and increasing the graduation rate, the law is not perfect. There is still much, much work to be done. As Congress looks to rewrite this law, we must remember the core tenants of Elementary and Secondary Education Act. We must seek to ensure that our public education system offers equal opportunity for all, and that the needs of our nation's most vulnerable children are being met.

Education is our nation's great equalizer. For 50 years, the Elementary and Secondary Education Act has been our nation's driving force for educational equity. Education is critical to lift children out of poverty and afford opportunities that once seemed unachievable. We should expand support for elementary and secondary education--not limit it--so that all Americans can receive the education they deserve.

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