Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dave Loebsack recently introduced legislation to address the importance of increasing access to critical services in schools to address the non-academic factors that affect students' ability to learn. His legislation, the Reducing Barriers to Learning Act, would increase student access to school counselors, nurses, psychologists, social workers, specialized teachers, and community partners such as mental and physical health providers. Loebsack spoke about his legislation during an Education and the Workforce Committee hearing earlier this week. Video can be found here.
"As a former educator, I recognize the importance of focusing on all of the factors that contribute to student success in order to promote learning and safe and supportive school environments. Knowing who is available to help struggling students and those in need of more specialized supports is critical," said Loebsack. "The Reducing Barriers to Learning Act will increase student access to critical services so that we can better address the non-academic needs of students and help them learn in the classroom by addressing issues such as depression, low-self esteem, and speech and language disorders. This will not only set our children up for success both in school and in their future college and career pursuits, but will also support our teachers' efforts in the classroom."
Loebsack's bill would improve specialized instructional support services in schools and clarify the roles of specialized personnel to ensure they are able to best serve students' needs. It would also create a grant program to develop programs and train personnel dedicated to removing barriers to learning.
The Reducing Barriers to Learning Act is endorsed by the following organizations:
American Federation of Teachers
National Association of Social Workers
American Counseling Association
National Association of School Psychologists
School Social Work Association of America
American Council for School Social Work
National Association of Pupil Services Administrators
American Art Therapy Association
National Association of School Nurses
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