A few weeks ago, I outed myself as being confused about the stimulus bill put forth by the Obama administration. As someone invested in educational equity, I was really excited about the prospect of doubling federal funding but it was hard to get a grip on some of the huge amounts being tossed around. One part of the stimulus that seemed absolutely reasonable, however, was the provisions for school construction. After all, building and/or improving schools is a direct investment in infrastructure, has an immediate impact on creating jobs and is a one time “stimulus” instead of an ongoing commitment.
So now I am really confused. I just don’t get is why the Senate version of the bill–which was compromise enough for only three Republicans!–hacked off $16 billion for school construction of all things.
Curious about the other educational expenditures that the Senate cut out of the stimulus bill? (hint: it’s not tax cuts)
From Ed Week:
Reductions in Education Spending from the House to the Senate
Education Technology
House: $1 billion
Senate: $1 billionTitle 1 Programs for Disadvantaged Students
House:$13 billion
Senate: $12.4 billionEducational “Incentive Grants” to States (money for districts, colleges and nonprofits)
House: $15 billion + $25 billion in flexible aid to states that could be used for education
Senate: $7.5 billion (this figure also covers “flexible aid to states”)Head Start (pre-school education)
House:$2.1 billion
Senate: $1.05 billionTeacher-Quality State Grants
House: $100 million
Senate: $50 millionTeacher Incentive Fund
House:$200 million
Senate: 0School Data Systems
House:$250 million
Senate: 0Charter School Facilities
House:$25 million
Senate: 0
Do these cuts represent your priorities? What do you think of the “compromise?”
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Kidz Today is a column about youth and education by Joie Jager-Hyman.
What ever happened to “I believe the children are the future, teach them well and let them lead the way”?
The Senate needs to get its priorities straight.
I was also baffled when I heard about these cuts. I’m curious about your thoughts regarding the Senate’s proposed elimination of funds allotted to the teacher incentive fund , school data systems, and charter school facilities.