Patty Murray: “I rise today to mention a few topics vital to the educational success and safety of American children. Mr. President…”

“I rise today to mention a few topics vital to the educational success and safety of American children. Mr. President, last week we saw some real success for American families and students. The Higher Education Reauthorization Act made several improvements that can benefit from more attention; this bill is a major victory for students and teachers across America. My daughter enters college this fall. I now get to experience first-hand the challenges of entering higher education that millions of families each year, and our actions last week were helpful. Throughout the Labor Committee's efforts on this bill, I worked to strengthen our Nation's commitment to providing the strongest training possible for K-12 school teachers. I am most pleased with the bill's focus on teacher training, and in particular its emphasis on technology training. The bill's provisions concerning student loans will make the dream of higher education that much closer to reality for many potential American college students. The campus safety and child care provisions will make a difference in all our communities. I specifically thank Senator Wellstone for his work on the TANF amendment, so important for literacy instruction and lifelong learning.”