This week when Congress returns from their Memorial Day break, work is turning to federal funding for education, including the new block grant recently authorized by the newly enacted K-12 education law, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). This new block grant, the Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants, was authorized with bipartisan support at $1.65 billion. But whether it receives that funding is under threat and you have a Senator voting on this issue this week.
As you may know, ESSA contains a number of pro-arts provisions, but much of the choice on whether to take advantage of those opportunities is up to states like CT.
For instance, Congress decided to consolidate more than 20 existing programs into this one block grant program. States and districts will choose where best to spend their dollars in order to help all students develop the skills essential for learning readiness and academic success. Importantly, at least 20 percent of the funding is directed to well-rounded education, which includes activities in the arts (including dance, media arts, music, theatre and visual arts)!
But, the funding is under threat. President Obama in his February budget proposal requested just $500 million for the program, less than one-third of its authorized level! Many members of Congress spoke out against this proposal, including the leadership of the U.S. House Education Committee. Chairman John Kline (R-MN) and Ranking Member Bobby Scott (D-VA) wrote in a letter:
Take 2 minutes now to let your member of Congress know you support full funding for this block grant that can support arts education in schools. Your U.S. Senator serves on the key committee weighing this funding proposal this week!
We greatly appreciate your taking the time to reach out to your member of Congress during this critical time.
Thank you for your support of the arts and arts education!