Statewide Education Summit
April 18, 2008

DISTINGUISHED SPEAKER
Summary of Senator Cornyn's remarks

Senator John Cornyn, United States Senator – Texas

“Federal policymakers face many challenges as most policy is handled at the local and state levels.  When we see a dropout crisis, however, we face a call to arms because this damages the future potential of young people and our country.  State educators should be applauded, and the UTeach program at The University Texas has been a great model.  In trying to address what Congress can do to make America more competitive, the America Competes Act has been passed to enhance the federal role in providing incentives for teachers and students.  We face a labor shortage in many high tech jobs.  We also need to review our immigration policy to supplement the brainpower of our student bodies.  With an unrealistic cap on HB1 visas, we cannot continue to attract the brightest and best to the United States.  We have an obligation to keep youth in school because failing to do so is very costly in many ways.  An increase in the graduation rates would save money in terms of costs related to criminal activity.  This need is very urgent, and the progress in test improvement has been very slow.  The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) legislation had a pure intent but the Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) assessment has had some negative results.  The reality of the “one size fits all” approach is that is doesn’t work and more flexibility is needed.  We need to learn from the practice of NCLB and strengthen the accountability to students and parents.  The Academic Partnerships Lead to Success Act or A+ Act increases the state flexibility parameters regarding NCLB.  The state can use other assessments besides AYP.  A+ would empower schools for success.  Education is more than mastery.  It should encourage lifetime learning, acknowledge specialized needs, and encourage and reward innovation.  Maybe the best legislation minimizes the involvement of the federal government.”  The senator invites everyone to share ideas with him and their congressional delegation in Washington, D.C.