Senator Gallego Unveils Plan to Reform, Strengthen America’s Public Education System

Senator Gallego’s four-pillar framework details his commitment to improving America’s public schools for every student WASHINGTON – Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) released his new plan to address America’s failing public education system. The four-pillar plan, “ Class in Session: A Plan to Fix America’s Public Education System, ” provides a pathway to bolster public education for every American student — especially those in rural, tribal, and high-poverty communities who often face barriers that extend beyond the classroom. “Even though I grew up poor, I was lucky enough to get a good enough education, make it to Harvard, and eventually become a U.S. Senator. Every kid deserves that same fair shot. Instead, Donald Trump’s gutting of the Department of Education has left our most vulnerable students behind,” said Senator Gallego. “My plan not only reverses these cuts but also provides a path forward for our nation’s public schools, including by eliminating federal funding for vouchers, increasing teacher pay, tackling student absenteeism, and setting up workforce training programs.” Senator Gallego’s plan: Protecting and Investing in Public Education: Protect the federal role in public education by strengthening the Department of Education and ensuring programs such as Title I, IDEA, Impact Aid, the Rural Education Achievement Program (REAP), Secure Rural Schools (SRS), and E-Rate continue to serve the communities that depend on them Investing in and Strengthening the Teacher Workforce: Work with states and school districts to improve teacher compensation and working conditions, including teacher health and wellness while expanding preparation programs including residencies and locally based preparation programs, financial aid, mentorship, and leadership pathways. Supporting Student Success and Well-Being: Address learning loss, chronic absenteeism, and student mental health by investing in full-service community schools, as well as investing in afterschool learning, tutoring, summer learning, mental health professionals and other school-based support. Preparing Students for College, Careers, and the Workforce: Expand access to college and career advising, dual enrollment, career and technical education, apprenticeships, and work-based learning opportunities. Read the full plan HERE .