Letter to the House of Representatives: September 15, 2009

Member
United States House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515

Re:  Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2009 - H.R. 3221

Dear Representative:

On behalf of more than 95,000 local school board members who represent more than 49 million students in the 15,000 public school districts across the nation through our state associations, the National School Boards Association (NSBA) urges you to Vote Yes on the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2009 (H.R. 3221). HR 3221 would authorize much-needed investments in school infrastructure and early childhood education and help our students and schools succeed with 21st Century skills and knowledge.

H.R. 3221 would provide more than $4 billion in grants to states and local school districts to help supplement limited resources for school modernization projects that are essential to safe and healthy learning environments. The grants would also support “green” schools programs that will help conserve energy and enhance learning curricula around environmental education in some schools.

The legislation’s provisions for school modernization are also critical to both local and national economies because they will stimulate the creation of more than 100,000 new jobs needed to modernize, renovate and repair many school facilities that are no longer sufficient for today’s educational needs. NSBA recently fielded more than 1,300 responses from school board members regarding priorities for school modernization, which included expansion of preschool and school buildings; classroom additions to accommodate growth/overcrowding; modernization/repairs of roofing, plumbing, electrical wiring, restrooms, maintenance facilities; purchasing and repairing technology facilities/equipment; and, improving building security/safety projects.

The Early Learning Challenge Fund would provide $1 billion annually for eight years and represents a strong start for a national effort to improve the quality of early childhood education programs and provides incentives and resources for states. School board members recognize the critical role that quality early childhood education programs play in helping to set a positive trajectory for student success, and believe strongly in the need for increased federal investment in this area.

Research proves that quality early childhood education programs help improve children’s school readiness and can help close achievement gaps that exist among children even before they enter school. Research also finds that children who participate in high-quality programs demonstrate greater interest in learning, are less likely to repeat a grade or require special education classes, and are more likely to graduate from high school and attend college. For every dollar invested in prekindergarten programs, the return can be as high as $16, making it both smart education and economic policy.

NSBA supports the early childhood education and school modernization provisions of H.R. 3221, and urges Congress’ passage and full funding of such provisions. Questions concerning our recommendations may be directed to Lucy Gettman, director of federal programs, at 703.838.6763; or by email, lgettman@nsba.org.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Resnick
Associate Executive Director