Cass Ballenger: “every American child has a right to a quality education. Yet our education system, as a whole, has been failing to…”

“every American child has a right to a quality education. Yet our education system, as a whole, has been failing to deliver, particularly to minorities. For example, 63 percent of nonurban fourth graders can read at a basic level, while only 43 percent of urban fourth graders can meet the same standards. And the dropout rate for African American students is about 15 percent, while the Hispanic student dropout rate is between 30 and 35 percent. Republicans believe educational opportunities should be the same for all children regardless of race, religion, or economic background. That is why I support H.R. 7, the Education Savings and Excellence Act. This legislation helps parents put aside money tax free for their children's education. This money may be spent on tuition, a computer, or even a tutor. Best of all, 76 percent of all the children who will benefit from the ESAs currently attend public schools. Success in America begins in the classroom. Let us give all children an opportunity to achieve the American Dream. Let us pass H.R. 7.”