Langevin Disappointed in Passage of Education Reauthorization

Rep. Jim Langevin (D-RI) today expressed his disappointment in House passage of the so-called Student Success Act to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), also known as No Child Left Behind.

“This bill fails to put students first or invest in a well-educated and highly-trained workforce,” Rep. Langevin said. “In particular, it neglects to hold schools accountable for student success and does not invest in quality teacher development programs. Instead, it slashes funding at the expense of our students.”

ESEA has been due for reauthorization since 2007, but the Student Success Act does not fix the problems associated with No Child Left Behind. The bill eliminates required reporting of Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) and minimizes interventions currently in place to address poorly-performing schools. Quality requirements for teachers are also scaled back through the bill.

“Our nation’s educational policy needs to be updated, but this bill moves us in the wrong direction,” Langevin continued. “This bill allows states to weaken standards for teachers and curriculum, especially at the expense of young people with disabilities, English language learners and low-income, at-risk students.”

A broad coalition of 35 groups representing educators, students, businesses, minorities and individuals with disabilities opposed the bill as well, including the ACLU, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Education Association, the American Federation of Teachers, the National Down Syndrome Society and the National Disability Rights Network. Langevin supported the substitute bill offered by House Education and Workforce Committee Ranking Member George Miller, which he said would continue protections for students with disabilities and invest funds into career education. Langevin also worked with Ranking Member Miller to include a provision in the amendment making comprehensive career counseling an allowable use of funds under Title II. This would allow school districts to help students build the skills necessary to succeed in in-demand career fields.

“As co-chair of the Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus, closing the skills gap is a priority of mine. School counselors play a critical role in helping students into careers that meet their individual needs,” Langevin said. “While a four-year university might be the best fit for some, others might find a two-year degree or a professional certification to be the best path for their career.”