Senate Democratic Leadership Announces its Funding Package

This afternoon the Senate Democratic leadership announced their counter proposal to the House’s spending cuts (HR 1). It proposes to restore $200 million to Striving Readers Comprehensive Literacy program that was cut (to zero) in the two week spending measure called a continuing resolution (CR). Striving Readers Comprehensive Literacy provides funds for professional development in reading and writing from age 0 to grade 12. I have just come from a meeting with Senate Appropriation staff on this measure. What is also interesting is that programs such as the National Writing Project and Reading Is Fundamental will be put in the Investment in Innovation (I3) Fund. (They had been cut because by definition as nationally directed appropriation they are earmarks – as are Teach for America and the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.) The vote on this measure will occur this Tuesday, March 8th. What is very important is how many votes will be cast supporting the measure as it will be an indication of support for education and literacy.   If this proposal doesn’t get much support, these programs will be lost and cuts to education will continue.    It is important to remember that this funding debate will be going on for many more weeks.