Washington Update June 25, 2024
Dear Colleagues:
Welcome to this week's edition of Washington Update! As usual, we have some significant updates from both the federal and state education policy space that could impact us all.
First, we discuss the latest developments in Washington, D.C. The Senate HELP Committee recently held a critical hearing to address the challenges facing public school teachers, such as inadequate pay, teacher shortages, and underfunded schools. These issues are at the forefront of national discourse, and potential solutions could significantly influence our education system.
In addition to this, we’re gearing up for the first presidential debate coming up this Thursday. Education policy is expected to be a topic of discussion. We’ve already experienced the policies of both administrations and as you may be aware, the candidates have markedly different views on the federal government's role in education. President Biden's tenure has focused on expanding federal support for public schools and increasing funding for underserved areas. On the other hand, former President Trump’s administration emphasized school choice and reducing federal oversight. This debate could provide valuable insights into how each candidate plans to tackle the pressing issues within our education system.
Beyond these fundamental differences, the debate is likely to touch on several other contentious issues. The cultural wars in education, including curriculum content and parental rights, could be a flashpoint. The use of vouchers and school choice programs is another critical area, with debates on whether public funds should support private schooling options.
On the state level, Louisiana has recently passed a law requiring the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms, sparking debates about religious freedom and state funding. This development adds to the dynamic landscape of education policy and its ongoing challenges.
Stay tuned for more updates and detailed analysis on these topics and more in our upcoming issues.
1. Senate HELP Committee Holds Hearing Addressing Challenges Facing Public School Teachers
The U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee held a hearing on June 20, 2024, to address significant challenges faced by public school teachers, focusing on low pay, teacher shortages, and underfunded schools. The hearing, led by Chairman Bernie Sanders, included testimonies from various stakeholders including teachers and education advocates.
Key points from the hearing included:
1.Low Pay: Chairman Sanders emphasized that public school teachers in the U.S. are paid significantly less today than they were nearly three decades ago when adjusted for inflation. He pointed out the stark pay disparities, noting that some hedge fund managers earn more in a year than all kindergarten teachers in the U.S. combined. Sanders advocated for a minimum salary of $60,000 for teachers, highlighting the need to attract and retain quality educators by offering decent wages and benefits.
2.Teacher Shortages: Witnesses discussed how low salaries and high stress contribute to high turnover rates. Approximately 8% of teachers leave the profession annually, with nearly half of new teachers leaving within five years. This turnover rate is double that of countries like Finland, Singapore, and Canada.
3.Underfunded Schools: The committee also addressed the broader issue of underfunded public schools, which exacerbates the challenges of low pay and teacher shortages. Witnesses highlighted the necessity for increased funding to provide adequate resources and support for teachers and students alike.
Testimonies were provided by various individuals, including John Arthur, a teacher from Utah; Gemayel Keyes, a teacher from Philadelphia; Dr. William E. Kirwan from Maryland’s Accountability and Implementation Board; Robert Pondiscio from the American Enterprise Institute; and Nicole Neily, President of Parents Defending Education.
The hearing underscored the urgent need for legislative action to improve teacher pay, reduce teacher shortages, and ensure sufficient funding for public schools to enhance educational outcomes across the nation.
You can watch the hearing in its entirety and read the full testimonies here.
2. Louisiana Mandates Ten Commandments in Public School Classrooms
Last week, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry signed into law a bill requiring the display of the Ten Commandments in every public-school classroom across the state, making Louisiana the first state to implement such a mandate. The legislation mandates that the Ten Commandments be presented in a large, easily readable font on a poster-sized display in each classroom from kindergarten through state-funded universities.
Proponents of the law argue that the Ten Commandments hold historical significance and are foundational documents for the state and national government. The law includes a context statement explaining how the Ten Commandments were a prominent part of American public education for nearly three centuries. Additionally, schools are authorized, but not required, to display other historical documents such as the Mayflower Compact, the Declaration of Independence, and the Northwest Ordinance.
Opponents, including civil rights groups and organizations advocating for the separation of church and state, have raised concerns about the constitutionality of the law. They argue that the law could alienate students of different religious beliefs. The decision will be challenged in court based on past U.S. Supreme Court rulings, which found similar laws to violate the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment.
The implementation of the law will rely on either donations or a reallocation of appropriated dollars for funding the displays, with no state funds being allocated for this purpose. The law has sparked significant debate and is expected to face noteworthy legal challenges.
3.New Resources for Educators
• NPR has initiated a series of stories on students with disabilities experience in the public education system post Covid.
• The Washington Post has released an analysis on disability rights in the U.S. education system
• The NEA, NCLD, and US Department of Education were featured on Washington Post live discussing educator shortages and special education. Special nod to our dear friend and colleague Dr. Jackie Rodriguez for her amazing spotlight and continued work on behalf of our field.
Washington Update and Congress will be on recess for the next two weeks, returning July 12th. However, I have a feeling I might jump back on here for a special “Presidential Debate Edition” of Wash Update- stay tuned!
Until next time, see you on X!
Kait
@brennan_kait
Do you have a question about Washington Update? Want to talk education policy? Have a story I should know about? Ping me, lets do virtual coffee: kbrennan@kbstrategies.org
