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Harrisonburg school board opposes bill to eliminate U.S. Department of Education; asks congressman for meeting
Summary
The board passed a resolution opposing House Bill 899, which would eliminate the U.S. Department of Education, and called for a meeting with U.S. Rep. Ben Cline to discuss implications. The resolution passed by roll call with one abstention.
The Harrisonburg City School Board voted March 4 to adopt a resolution opposing House Bill 899 — a measure described in the resolution as proposing elimination of the U.S. Department of Education — and requested a meeting with Congressman Ben Cline, identified by the board as a co‑sponsor, to discuss local impacts.
The resolution framed federal programs such as Title I and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act as critical supports for students from low‑income households, students with disabilities and English learners. "Eliminating the U.S. Department of Education would put these essential resources at risk," Vice Chair Holly (presenter) said when introducing the resolution.
Board debate and vote
Board members discussed the potential uncertainty and loss of federal oversight and funding, and the resolution language was described by supporters as a nonpartisan defense of programs that provide services to vulnerable students. The board moved the measure and approved it by roll call. The vote recorded in the minutes was: Mister Snyder, aye; Miss Siegel, abstain; Miss Laughlin, aye; Dr. Cohen, aye; Dr. Ali, aye; Chair Terry Phillips, aye.
The resolution directs that copies be sent to Representative Cline, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner, Virginia’s congressional delegation, the governor and the Virginia Department of Education.
Ending: The board asked staff to transmit the resolution and to continue outreach to the congressman’s office; the superintendent reported staff contact with Representative Cline’s office but no direct meeting yet with the congressman.
