Steven Holt: “Education policy suffers because policy maker were all once students themselves. As a result, they think they know what…”

“Education policy suffers because policy maker were all once students themselves. As a result, they think they know what works and how students learn. The best antidote for self-serving, self-centered policy makers is evidence. Evidence has a way of puncturing the statements and paradigms of misguided, but well-meaning policy makers. The Strengthening Education through Research Act (SETRA) would produce rigorous, relevant, and useful evidence. Rigorous in that it mandates education research uses good methodology and a peer review process. Relevant in that it speaks to today's education issues that teachers and students face in urban, suburban, and rural schools. Useful in that teachers, principals, schools, and states can use the research to improve instruction and student achievement. Additionally, SETRA increases the emphasis school districts and states should place on longitudinal data systems as a way to improve instruction. Efforts to create P-20 data systems that link early learning with professional outcomes will help gather the data necessary to help teachers improve student learning and help states prioritize investments in impactful initiatives. I strongly support SETRA and urge my colleagues to voice their support as well. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Bishop of Utah). The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Rokita) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 4366, as amended.…”