Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar hosted a video and teleconference focused on the reauthorization of the No Child Left Behind Act. A representative from the Department of Education and Congressman Cuellar participated, as well as superintendents and educators from Texas’ 28th district.

“It is very important to me to hear the concerns and opinions of teachers and education professionals in my district.  They are the people encountering the everyday challenges and outcomes of No Child Left Behind, so I am proud that we were able to host such an important event,” said Congressman Cuellar.

During the hour-long conference, participants in McAllen, Laredo and San Antonio were invited to comment and ask questions of Congressman Cuellar and Amanda Farris, Deputy Assistance Secretary of the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education.  Educators in the other nine counties of Texas’ 28th district participated via conference call. 

The conference featured an overview and update of No Child Left Behind, with a focus on progress in Texas’ 28th district, English Language Learners and Special Needs Students.  Congressman Cuellar’s recent actions were also discussed, including his introduction of the Teachers and English Language Learners (TELL) Act, One-Stop Student Financial Aid Information Act of 2007 and his co-sponsorship of the Safe School Against Violence in Education Act.

“I am happy and grateful for the opportunity to have today’s conference.  It allowed us to open up dialogue, build relationships with our federal counterparts and foster discussion and thoughts that otherwise wouldn’t be possible,” said Dave Vinson, Superintendent of the Floresville Independent School District.

“Improvements and forward progress in our schools will always be one of my top priorities.  Education is the great equalizer for all of our young people and will provide students with better opportunities throughout their lives.  I will continue to work to ensure the success of the educators and students in Texas’ 28th district,” said Congressman Cuellar.

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Majority Senior Whip.
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