Tom Harkin: “in many of our Nation's poorest communities, children and families do not have access to the educational opportunities…”

“in many of our Nation's poorest communities, children and families do not have access to the educational opportunities that enable youth to start school ready to learn and graduate from secondary school ready to succeed in college and the workforce, achieve economic self-sufficiency, and support families of their own someday. As chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, it is my responsibility to lead the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, which affords an exciting opportunity to improve the quality of elementary and secondary education for our children and youth. Our Nation's future economic strength and national security require well-educated workers who are not only academically prepared, but also healthy, understand the importance of community and civic participation, and possess the skills needed to successfully compete in the 21st century global economy. To accomplish these goals, children and youth must have access to a great education and safe and supportive community, beginning at birth. However, in too many communities the consequences of poverty limit the chances students have to obtain a solid academic foundation that leads to college and career success. That is why we need Promise Neighborhoods. Promise Neighborhood partnerships leverage community assets to significantly improve academic outcomes, including school readiness, high school graduation and college entry and completion.…”