Elementary and Secondary Schools:

Given the state of our economy, it is imperative that we invest in education to promote new employment and ensure that today's students can adapt to the jobs of tomorrow.

Elementary and Secondary Schools:

I believe strongly in supporting public schools, students and teachers. The passage of No Child Left Behind established a policy to hold all students to high academic standards while upholding the promise to provide a quality education to all our nation's children. As the law has been implemented, it has been met with both successes and challenges. I believe that Congress must address the challenges raised by teachers, parents, and Administrators through the upcoming reauthorization of No Child Left Behind. Teachers must be given the support they need to meet new standards set for their students, which includes access to meaningful professional development programs and the time to participate in those programs. States must be given the flexibility to include multiple measures of student achievement and measure growth over time. The supplemental services to schools performing below the standard promised in No Child Left Behind must reach the students that need the assistance. Above all, the federal government must meet its commitment to fully funding the law so it can be implemented properly.

Higher Education:

Ensuring and increasing access to higher education is very important to me. I strongly support policies and programs that recognize the challenges faced by today's students, such as the rising cost of tuition. I am proud to be part of a Congress that is committed to ensuring that all students can pursue their dreams without the burdens of unnecessary costs and debt. Since 2006, we have passed legislation that will make college more affordable by lowering federal student loan interest rates, increasing the maximum Pell Grant to $8,000 by 2014, and establishing loan forgiveness programs for students who choose to enter professions facing a shortage in our state – such as math, science, special education, and reading teachers who work in low-income schools. I will continue to support federal policies that promote access and success in postsecondary education for all Americans.