the administration has brought forward a very, very big new proposal.

Central to that effort is keeping interest rates low on student loans.

Those cuts would multiply the damage of sequestration, which continues to hurt low-income and special needs students.

In K-12, ESEA flexibility has provided crucial space for innovation and system-wide improvement.

Together we can choose another path and make smart, strategic, long-term investments.

I am convinced it is investing in high-quality early childhood education--in preschool.

President Obama recognizes education as an investment and not an expense.

For each of the past 2 years Republicans have released budgets filled with giveaways to the wealthiest Americans at the expense of educating our nation's children.

I appreciate that, like Republicans, the president has acknowledged the value of moving student loan interest rates back to a market-based system.

Unfortunately, the Republican budget negatively impacts students by making it harder to go to college and harder to pay off debt.

This year isn't any different. In March, Republicans put forth a budget that not only keeps in place the across-the-board cuts known as sequestration, but actually calls for even more draconian cuts in education programs across the country.

I recognize the importance of freeing states and school districts from the law's outdated metrics and regulations.

While we all recognize the value of quality early learning experiences, we must remember a number of programs with similar goals are already out there.

the lack of funding for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act is simply appalling.

It's time to acknowledge the fact that throwing more money into the nation's education system is not the right answer to the challenges facing our classrooms.

I appreciate that, like Republicans, the President has acknowledged the value of moving student loan interest rates back to a market-based system.

this must be done through a full reauthorization of the law, not executive fiat.

the number in the President's budget is, in my judgment, simply appalling.