ALEXANDRIA, VA--(Marketwire - May 26, 2011) - National PTA applauds the U.S. House Education and Workforce Committee for voting yesterday against repealing the Parental Information and Resource Center (PIRC) program. The only federal funding stream dedicated to family engagement in education, PIRCs positively affect 16 million parents and families -- more than 75% of whom are low income.
The vote for the amendment against repealing the program happened yesterday when the House Education and Workforce Committee took the first step toward reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) by voting to cut over 40 programs from the U.S. Department of Education.
National PTA applauds Congressman Todd Platts (R-PA), the lead sponsor of the Family Engagement in Education Act (HR1821), for offering the amendment to strike the repeal of the PIRC program. Congressman Platts and three of his Republican colleagues, Judie Biggert (R-IL), Glenn Thompson (R-PA), and Lou Barletta (R-PA), voted for the amendment and remain true champions for children and families nationwide.
"On behalf of National PTA's more than five million members, I commend and thank Congressman Platts and his fellow Representatives for introducing the amendment and seeing that the PIRC program remains in the reauthorization of ESEA," said Charles J. "Chuck" Saylors.
This is a significant victory for family engagement in education and National PTA looks forward to working with Congress to restore PIRC funding in Fiscal Year (FY) 2012. See National PTA's statement on the recent decision made within the U.S. Department of Education to eliminate funding for PIRCs FY2011.
About National PTA
National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.
To view a media-rich version of this release, go to:
http://www.pwrnewmedia.com/2011/national_pta/pirc_program/index.html
Contact Information:
Contact:
James Martinez
Cell: (571) 329-9352