House Panel Votes to Eliminate More Than 40 Critical Education Programs
On May 25, the House Committee on Education and the Workforce passed the first in a series of bills aimed at reforming the "No Child Left Behind" law. The bill- H.R. 1891, sponsored by Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) and passed by a vote of 23-16-would eliminate 43 U.S. Department of Education programs. The subject areas supported by these programs include American history, art, literacy, cultural education and foreign language instruction, among others. This bill is the first of as many as six expected bills seeking to rewrite portions of the No Child Left Behind law, which is due for reauthorization this year. According to Rep. Hunter, the legislation is intended to reduce the federal imprint on education and target programs deemed ineffective or redundant.

AAM President Ford W. Bell noted that museums have been active partners with schools in many of the programs slated for termination-particularly Teaching American History and Arts in Education. "At a time when our students demand greater innovation and a well-rounded education to ensure a competitive global workforce, this legislation seems particularly misguided," he said. "Museums are second to none in sparking students' creativity and enriching their education in subjects ranging from science, history, literacy, foreign languages, geography and the arts. Eliminating these vital programs will only further hinder museums' ability to reach students and educators in ways classroom instruction simply cannot."

AAM's advocacy website makes it easy to tell Congress how your museum is helping to teach the local curriculum and why these programs are so important.  Click here to contact Congress today!

It is possible the bill could come to the House floor for a vote at any time, so it is crucial to weigh in with your legislators TODAY to oppose any efforts to abolish these programs. Our representatives in Congress must be made aware of the vital ways museums are utilizing these programs to partner with schools and educate our nation's students. The Senate is working on a more comprehensive reauthorization effort-rather than the piecemeal approach currently adopted by the House-but has yet to introduce any legislation.