THE CONCERN:

This month begins the final countdown to the November 7 mid-term congressional elections, and to critical state and local elections around the country.  At the federal level, all Members of the House of Representatives are up for reelection, and one-third of Senators.  This election will help to shape the future of education support in Congress and in your states and communities. 

Before adjourning for the election recess, Congress decided to postpone consideration of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2007 Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS), and Education Appropriations bill, which provides funding for education and workforce programs including Perkins. Instead, Congress passed a “Continuing Resolution” (CR) that will provide temporary funding to education programs at the FY 2006 level until Congress reconvenes for a lame-duck session after the election. (Please visit ACTE’s Federal Budget & Appropriations Web page for more in-depth information on federal funding). 

With this important funding legislation still pending in Congress, now is a great time to engage congressional candidates in discussing their education priorities and advocating for increased CTE funding. It is also important to begin building relationships with state and local candidates who will influence education policy in your community.  Below are some activities you can use to build awareness and support for CTE.

ACTION NEEDED:

1. Invite Candidates for Congress to Visit Your Programs

Invite local, state, and federal candidates to visit your programs, speak at your schools, or join a PTA or advisory meeting. Getting candidates involved in your program provides a great opportunity to showcase successful CTE programs and to develop and maintain good relationships with potential policymakers. While candidates are visiting your program, be sure to explain the need for increased funding for CTE programs, and specifically reference Perkins funding with federal candidates (please visit Hosting Site Visits for Policymakers for more information).

2. Attend Election Events and Public Forums

During this last month of the election cycle, there are likely to be numerous public forums held in communities across the country. Participation in a forum can bring attention to the field of CTE. Attend a forum and ask candidates where they stand on education and training issues. Offer to provide further information on good programs in your community. Let them know that CTE provides effective and proven links to skills-building opportunities and improved employment outcomes; that employers across the nation continue to need well-trained workers with good skills; and that CTE programs are working well in serving your community.

To find out when and where town hall meetings or public forums will occur, call your Members of Congress' local offices, or check their Websites for possible listings. For local or state events, you can also check your local phone book, newspapers, church bulletins, community calendars, and other community organizations.

3. At the Federal Level, Ask Your Senators to Sign a Letter to Increase Education Funding

Ask your Senators to sign the “Specter/Harkin Dear Colleague letter” requesting that the Senate leadership provide no less than the FY05 funding level for labor, health, and education programs as directed by the Specter-Harkin amendment to the budget resolution. Click here to see if your Senators have already signed on.

4. Vote this November 7th!

Voting is your fundamental right as an American and is the most basic means by which you have a voice in how your government works. By voting, you participate in a process that determines who will represent you, your family, and your neighbors in your community, your state, and your country.