All kids deserve a great education no matter their zip code!

As your constituent, I urge you to cosponsor the bipartisan, bicameral bill to extend the Secure Rural Schools program (S. 356/H.R. 1383) so that students in rural public schools have access to a well-rounded education that inspires them, sparks their curiosity, and prepares them for their future. The measure (S. 356/H.R. 1383) reauthorizes the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program, which assists counties that contain national forests, and therefore tax-exempt, land. The SRS program provides payments (derived in part from timber receipts and other leasing activities) that help support schools and other important services; the last authorized payments under the program were distributed in the spring of 2024 for fiscal year 2023. Without this extension some communities have already been forced to cut personnel, classes, learning opportunities, and other public services that support students, families, and the overall community. It is time to act. Nearly 20% of students in America attend rural public schools, according to the National School Boards Association’s Center for Public Education. Yet all too often, these schools lack the updated text books and adequate supplies that students and educators need. Rural public schools often struggle with inoperable HVAC systems, dilapidated buildings, or lack of access to technology. While the educator shortage is a serious problem across the nation, it can be especially dire in rural areas due to the challenges of recruitment and retention in those areas. Rural America is a critical part of our nation’s economy and ecosystem and deserves your support. The Secure Rural Schools program provides critical funding for public schools and other public services, including, roads, libraries, and public safety, in rural communities. It is vital that this program continue. All students, no matter where they live, deserve the tools, resources, and support to thrive. Their success contributes to our nation’s future. Please cosponsor the bipartisan S. 356/H.R. 1383 to help students in rural communities get an education and the services that will allow them to pursue their dreams. Thank you for your time and your support of public education.