Investing in education is an investment in America's future and the next generation of America's leaders. Each child's future depends on access to quality education, and our nation's success in the global marketplace depends on an educated workforce that can compete internationally. As a member of the Senate Budget Committee, I am committed to increasing funding for early education, teacher and principal training, programs to improve reading skills, science and math education, drop-out prevention programs, and college aid.

In the 111th Congress, we have already passed significant legislation that will improve educational opportunities for all Americans.

Thus far, I have...

• Supported the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which provided $53.6 billion for the State Fiscal Stabilization Fund, including $36.5 billion for local school districts and public colleges and universities to prevent further cuts, preserve teaching jobs, and maintain important programs for students.



• Supported the Omnibus Appropriations Act of 2009, which reflects the priorities of America's families, including funding for pre-school and after school programs and college financial aid.



• Co-sponsored the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act (H.R. 1388). This law engages and encourages volunteerism at all ages. It will have a direct effect on educational opportunities by: creating a Summer of Service program to enlist middle and high school students in volunteer services at home; increasing the education award in AmeriCorps to match the Pell Grant award and tying it to future increases in the Pell Grant.



• Co-sponsored No Child Left Inside Act of 2009 (S. 866). This bipartisan legislation would authorize $500 million over five years for school systems around the country to build environmental literacy programs, strengthen teacher training, and provide competitive grants to help schools and non-profits pay for outdoor education;



• Co-sponsored the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2009, which would allow a higher education opportunity tax credit for qualified tuition and related expenses (including a certain allowance for books).