Kathy Castor: “I thank the gentleman for yielding and for his unceasing efforts. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to this…”

“I thank the gentleman for yielding and for his unceasing efforts. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to this rule and H.R. 5 because the Republican bill fails America's students. Mr. Speaker, America's public schools are the envy of the world. We're fortunate to live in a country that believes that every child should be educated and given the opportunity to succeed in life. Our public schools are one of the best examples of American values. No matter where a child comes from, no matter what challenges a student faces in life--a disability, autism, poverty--that student can receive a good education. Our local public schools are largely community-based and locally run; but the Federal Government provides important support, especially for working-class communities and for students with disabilities and learning challenges. We have important work to do to continue to improve public schools and recruit good teachers; but under this bill, Republicans want to go in the other direction. The Republican bill before the House today proposes a harsh prescription for students and families who seek better schools and talented teachers. H.R. 5 guts education funding for students and teachers by over $1 billion below last year's levels at a time when we want high-quality curricula, and States and local school districts have been challenged financially.…”