WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congressman Loebsack reintroduced the Reducing Barriers To Learning Act of 2011 to increase student access to critical services and to assist schools in addressing the non-academic factors that may affect students’ ability to learn.

“We have to give every student the opportunity to succeed, and for many children that means providing services to address their safety, health, and wellbeing in addition to meeting their academic needs,” said Loebsack. “This legislation will help schools and teachers comprehensively address their students’ needs, giving them the motivation to remain engaged in school and helping them to succeed academically.”

Many important services are provided by specialized personnel, such as school counselors, psychologists, social workers, nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech and language pathologists, vision and hearing specialists and other personnel.  Unfortunately, these services are at risk in many schools due to the economic downturn and its impact on state and local budgets.

Loebsack’s bill would establish an Office of Specialized Instruction Support within the U.S. Department of Education to provide specialized instructional support services in schools and clarify the roles of specialized instructional support personnel. It would also create a grant program for State Education Agencies to build the capacity of Local Education Agencies to develop programs and train personnel dedicated to removing barriers to learning.

In addition, today Congressman Loebsack offered an amendment to H.R. 1891, a House Republican bill to eliminate many education programs.  Loebsack’s amendment would have preserved students’ access to mental health and counseling services. It would also have protected local efforts to create effective anti-violence and anti-drug programs. Unfortunately, House Republicans voted down the amendment, jeopardizing these services that keep Iowa students healthy.

“I grew up in poverty and I know first-hand the uphill battle many low-income students face. I was very lucky to have had the help of caring adults in my family, school and community, but all too frequently the story is much different,” said Loebsack. “Support for our students is critical and I refuse to stand by and watch these services be eliminated, denying our children the opportunity to maximize their academic potential.”