Last week, the focus in Congress was largely on the Senate debate on the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package that was passed by the House two weeks ago. The bill was ultimately passed on a 50-49 party-line vote Saturday afternoon. The COVID-19 relief package provides funding for both secondary and postsecondary education, as well as to shore up state budgets. It now goes back to the House for final passage, which is expected to occur this week. Here are a few more notes from last week:
- Cardona Confirmed as U.S. Secretary of Education: On Monday, the Senate voted to confirm Miguel Cardona as the 12th U.S. Secretary of Education. Once confirmed, Mr. Cardona sent a letter to parents and students and a separate letter to educators and education stakeholders outlining some of his plans and hopes for the future of education during his time as Secretary.
- More Department of Education Political Appointees Announced: The Department of Education announced 20 more political appointees. Included in this round of confirmations is the new chief of staff for the Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education (OCTAE), Jen Mishory.
- President Biden Pushes for All Teachers to Have Access to Vaccine: On Tuesday, President Biden called on all states to make vaccinating teachers a top priority. He would like to see all teachers have access to at least one dose of the vaccine by the end of March. Following the President’s remarks, Secretary of Education Cardona echoed this sentiment and said that vaccinating teachers is a top priority.
- Subcommittees for Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Announced: On Tuesday, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, released subcommittee assignments. Notably, the Subcommittee on Children and Families will be chaired by Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and the Ranking Member will be Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA).
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