Senator Tim Scott introduced the Kids in Classes Act Wednesday, aiming to provide parents direct federal funds when public schools close for more than three days. The bill targets local districts receiving Title I funding and requires them to establish a “failure to open” payment plan that bypasses traditional school systems.
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Under the legislation, if a school district suspends in-person instruction for more than three consecutive days due to emergencies or strikes, parents would receive payments based on the district’s per-student Title I funding amount multiplied by the number of closure days beyond the threshold. Families could use these funds for approved educational expenses, including curriculum materials, tutoring, online programs, private school tuition, testing, and therapies for students with disabilities.
Scott emphasized the need to protect students from learning loss caused by both pandemic-related shutdowns and teacher strikes. He referenced his own educational struggles and criticized teachers unions for wielding excessive influence over public education decisions. The bill is designed to ensure funding “follows the student” and offers families flexibility when local schools are unavailable.
Companion legislation has been introduced in the House by Representative Burgess Owens, who stated that prolonged school closures and strikes have contributed to students falling behind. Owens also highlighted that “every child in America deserves a fighting chance, no matter their circumstances or zip code.”
The Kids in Classes Act amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 by conditioning Title I federal funding on the implementation of this direct payment system. The proposal reflects ongoing debates about the role of teachers unions and federal education funding in response to recent strikes and pandemic disruptions.
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