The Federal Government’s Role In Education Today Is Far Too Intrusive and Counterproductive
by Senator Tom Coburn
The federal government’s role in education today is far too intrusive and counterproductive. I believe our Constitution empowers parents, teachers and local communities — not federal bureaucrats — to manage our children’s education. Congress should do everything in its power to limit the federal role in education and return education dollars and decisions to local communities.
America became a great and prosperous nation in part through strong local education that was controlled by parents, families, faith-based groups and community organizations. I do not believe it is a coincidence that as the federal government’s role in education has greatly expanded test scores across our country have stagnated or declined. The bureaucratic administration of education in Washington, D.C., has resulted in widespread waste and duplication among more than 760 different federal education programs with virtually no benefit to our children.
Congress needs to reconnect our children’s education with the local resources and caring individuals who will make a difference in their lives. The education tax dollars we are sending to Washington would be better spent if they were controlled and managed by our local communities.
