CEC President Weighs in on Higher Education Bill

As the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee ramps up closed-door bipartisan negotiations to reauthorize the Higher Education Act, CEC president Dr. Jenn Lesh wrote the Chair and Ranking Member to convey CEC’s priorities.

The letter emphasizes solutions to the current educator shortage crisis, including student grant and loan priorities and urges an emphasis on evidence-based practices in teacher induction programs. It also contains priorities that ensure students with disabilities have access to accommodations and supports while enrolled at institutions of higher education.

In terms of timing, it is unclear when the HELP Committee will release a draft HEA reauthorization. Last fall, the House Education and Labor Committee approved the College Affordability Act which now awaits consideration by the full House of Representatives.

To view Dr. Lesh’s letter to Senate HELP Committee Chair Alexander (R-TN) and Ranking Member Murray (D-WA), go here.