"Today’s party-line vote on the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act represents a cynical betrayal of America’s children, families and schools. The committee Republicans voted to oppose proposals to help communities reduce class size, ensure teacher quality, build and modernize schools, and keep school library shelves filled. They rejected the opportunity to support programs we know work for children.

"It’s tragic that the Republicans have chosen to destroy a 35-year-old bipartisan commitment to our nation’s poorest children. Since its inception, Title I has targeted funding to our neediest children and schools. In this radical scheme, those funds would become simply a blank check that states can use for failed experiments like vouchers or any other fly-by-night reform.

The American Federation of Teachers represents more than one million teachers, school paraprofessionals, higher education faculty and staff, health care professionals, and state and municipal employees.