Rep. Ellison: Republican Education Bill Takes Opportunities Away From Minnesota's Kids

Statement

Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN), Co-Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and Chief Deputy Whip, released the following statement after Republicans passed the "Student Success Act," which is the first reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act since No Child Left Behind.

"In Minnesota today, a child's opportunities are too often determined by where they grow up. The only factor that should determine a child's success is his or her desire to learn. Our federal education spending should reflect that reality, but the bill passed by House Republicans today leaves too many of our children behind.

"The "Student Success Act' sets low standards for high school graduation rates and ignores the growing achievement gap. The bill makes possible the transfer of vital funds away from schools in low-income neighborhoods to schools in affluent neighborhoods, making it harder for all of Minnesota's children to succeed. It funnels funding away from specific programs for at-risk, migrant and Native students and spends it elsewhere. It also cuts $1 billion from overall education spending.

"The "Student Success Act' will increase the achievement gap in Minnesota by moving money away from kids who need it most. Our classrooms should help all of our students succeed, but making schools engines of opportunity takes investment. We need an education policy that reaches into classrooms around the country and supports all students, regardless of race, gender or socioeconomic background."

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