NEA Hails Education Funding Hikes, Sees Opportunities Ahead

As the 106th Congress completed its work, National Education Association (NEA) President Bob Chase hailed the historic increases of $6.5 billion for education funding.

"We are encouraged that Congress finally passed an education spending bill that invests in critical programs," said Chase.

He noted that the bill includes significant new funds for school repairs, reduced class size, teacher quality, improving low-performing schools, special education, after school, and college student aid.

"We are deeply disappointed that bipartisan school modernization legislation was not passed at a time when 60% of our schools are in need of major repairs."

Considering the overwhelming support for public education from voters last month, Chase said education should top Congress' agenda in the 107th Congress.

"Education can be the priority that unites both parties," he said.

After six years of inaction, a legislative vacuum continues to exist around education. Consequently, Congress faces a host of education issues it must address beginning in January, including the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, Title I funding, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funding, early childhood programs, teacher quality, school safety, and juvenile justice measures.

The public has demonstrated overwhelming support for investing in public education. By a 78 to 16 spread, voters in exit polls said they preferred programs to fix public schools to proposals to pay for private and religious schools.

In addition the results of the ballot initiatives nationwide show unprecedented support for public schools.

"If there was any question about what the public wants, this election provides a clear answer - strengthening public schools," said Chase.

NEA suggested five priorities for the next session of Congress:

1. Enhancing the quality and expanding access to early childhood education programs.
2. Improving student achievement for all students, including closing the achievement gap for low-income and minority students.
3. Improving teacher quality through professional development, mentoring programs, and teacher recruitment incentives.
4. School modernization.
5. Full funding for special education.

Chase noted that public education advocates were able to block measures in the 106th Congress that would erode teacher quality and drain money from public schools with voucher schemes.

"We hope efforts to undermine successful programs through unaccountable block grants and vouchers will cease and that Congress will heed the message delivered by voters last month and devote its energy to improving public schools."

Chase noted that the new year and new session of Congress would provide a very high test for all political leaders.

"The task ahead requires Congress to move from politics to a policy of shared purpose and practical accomplishment for our children," said Chase.

Posted December 19, 2000