“The Trump-DeVos agenda threatens to shrink, rather than expand, students’ chances for success.

Betsy DeVos lacks awareness and understanding of even the most basic education issues – having never worked in a public school, attended a public school or sent her children to a public school.

She came into office with an intention to promote voucher programs nationwide, as she did here in Indiana through her political action committee the American Federation for Children, which used $1.3 million in political contributions to expand private school vouchers, private school tax credits and charter schools.

Championing budget cuts to public education robs communities of the resources needed to provide students with a well-rounded curriculum, one-on-one attention and support services, such as health care and after-school programs. More than 90 percent of Hoosier kids attend public schools and they deserve the resources necessary to succeed.

As Congress contemplates the Trump-DeVos education budget, I urge them to listen to educators and parents – the real experts on what our public schools need.”