Steven Holt: “I rise today to speak on HR 3801, the Education Sciences Reform Act. The bill restructures the current statute governing…”

“I rise today to speak on HR 3801, the Education Sciences Reform Act. The bill restructures the current statute governing the Office of Educational Research and Improvement by creating the Academy of Education Sciences. While there are many positive things in this bill, it also has a number of weaknesses that should be addressed. Unfortunately, because this bill is on the suspension calendar, we will not get a chance to amend it. This legislation is missing two important initiatives, the Eisenhower Regional Mathematics and Science Consortia and the Eisenhower National Clearinghouse. We must continue to make science education a priority in order to be prepared to compete in the global market place. One way of doing this is the Eisenhower Regional Mathematics and Science Consortia. Currently, the 10 regional Eisenhower Mathematics and Science Consortia provide expert, research-based advice to teachers, schools, and states on how to improve their math and science programs and accountability systems. The Consortia have economies of scale for expert staff and programs that most school districts could never duplicate; and as a network, their use of Federal resources is even more efficient. With their regional partners, the Consortia provide professional development and technical assistance that enables teachers and policymakers learn from math and science research in their efforts to improve math and science teaching and learning.”