Bipartisan Advice for Betsy DeVos

The appointment of Betsy DeVos as Secretary of Education was followed by a flurry of criticism and controversy as she stepped into her new role. Despite the heated debates, there is a chance for DeVos to step up and surprise many by unifying her position with bipartisan support. This article aims to provide some bipartisan advice that could lead DeVos on a path to success in the Department of Education.

1. Emphasize on Public Education: To gain support from both sides of the aisle, DeVos should prioritize public education and focus on its improvement. Ensuring equal access to education for all children, regardless of their socio-economic background, race, or religion, can go a long way in winning over skeptics.

2. Encourage Local Control: One key factor that both Democrats and Republicans agree on is local control over education decisions. DeVos should work towards empowering states and local communities by reducing federal interference in education policy and giving more autonomy to shape their curricula.

3. Collaborate with Teachers’ Unions: Building bridges with teachers’ unions can be essential for any successful education reform strategy. By opening up dialogue and discussing potential policy changes with these groups, DeVos can establish trust and mutual respect necessary for progress.

4. Implement Evidence-Based Policies: Bipartisan support is more likely if policies implemented are backed by solid evidence and research. This means being open to reconsidering positions based on data-driven insights and working actively with various stakeholders to identify the best course of action.

5. Transparency in Charter School Funding: While advocating for charter schools has been a significant part of DeVos’ career, making sure there is transparency in funding allocation will help garner bipartisan support for these programs. Clear reporting mechanisms and organized financial information are crucial to maintaining charter schools’ credibility.

6. Strengthening Career and Technical Education (CTE): Supporting CTE programs can be an essential bipartisan move for DeVos. Focus on skill-based learning and vocational training can help prepare students for the workforce, while also addressing the skills gap seen in the American job market.

7. Addressing Student Debt: Tackling the student debt crisis is crucial for a successful term as education secretary. This would require working with both sides of Congress to come up with practical solutions, including loan forgiveness programs or refinancing options.

8. Ensure Access to Education for Marginalized Communities: Quality education should not be hindered by factors such as race, socioeconomic background, or location. DeVos should actively work towards bridging this gap and ensuring that marginalized communities have equal access to quality education.

9. Digital Learning and Technology Integration: In the age of digital advancements, integrating technology in the classrooms is vital for shaping future generations’ educational experiences. By focusing on this aspect, DeVos can create a learning environment that caters to 21st-century students.

10. Mental Health Services: It’s essential to address mental health issues experienced by students within the K-12 system. Establishing support services and resources that cater to students’ mental wellbeing can be another key area where bipartisanship can prevail.

Betsy DeVos has an opportunity to make meaningful and lasting changes in American education while encouraging dialogue between opposing factions. By focusing on these ten bipartisan issues, she may well achieve success in her tenure as Secretary of Education and affect positive change in the lives of millions of American students.

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