Senator Murray Highlights Critical Importance of Strong Investments in Education and Workforce
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"As a former preschool teacher, I can tell you: we have to get this right. For our kids. For our families. Because when it comes to competing against other countries, winning the future isn't just about how much we spend on our military--it's also about how much we invest in our kids. Are we making sure our kids get a strong start in life so they can grow and thrive? Things like high quality public schools, enriching afterschool and summer programs, and the opportunity to pursue their higher education goals.
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We can't afford to shortchange these issues--especially if we want to stay ahead of our competitors, like the Chinese government. If we want to keep on the cutting edge of discovery--we have to support the next generation of researchers--we have to light that spark of curiosity, and invest in higher education institutions that help it burn bright. If we want to have a strong workforce--we have to make sure everyone can pursue a high quality education and career training opportunities.
The bottom line? If we want our nation to grow, and thrive, like it has for past generations, we have to invest in the next generation. And that's why this committee is so critical.
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Across the country they have implemented supports I've heard about like high-intensity tutoring, and summer learning programs. I want to build on these investments and ensure we use evidence-based programs, address barriers to implementation, and get states the technical assistance they need.
Secretary Cardona, how will the Department continue to prioritize disproportionately harmed students through this budget?
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I want to ask you about homelessness. There's been a 15 percent increase [in Washington state] from the previous year--young students who are homeless. I'm really concerned about this--talk to us about how you're dealing with the homelessness issue with our kids."
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