AUSTIN, TX – Faith and Education Coalition-NHCLC Executive Director Dr. Andrea Ramirez releases the following statement in reaction to the confirmation hearing of Secretary of Education nominee Betsy DeVos:

“As a coalition dedicated to the right of every child in America to have access to high-quality education, we are heartened to hear that the confirmation hearing for Betsy DeVos remained focused on seeking what is best for America’s children. It is evident that, as Chairman Alexander said of DeVos, each member of the committee is also on ‘our children’s’ side.’ We also applaud Secretary of Education nominee Betsy DeVos for her stated commitment to helping both parents and students—especially of lower income—find the best educational options that will meet their needs.

“Quality and equitable education for all American students will require vision, transparency, and accountability. We believe all community stakeholders, including parents, localities, and faith and community leaders, must partner to develop a clear state vision for the success of all students. Transparency in reporting and schools being accountable to their communities are both critical components as they provide parents and all community stakeholders with the information needed to best support closing gaps identified.”

Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, adds:

“We urge the Senate committee reviewing the Secretary of Education nominee DeVos to always keep the future and well-being of America’s 55 million students at the forefront of all decision-making. We pray that, if confirmed, Mrs. DeVos will lead the Department of Education to champion the educational rights of all America’s children, regardless of their income, race, or zip code.”

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Faith and Education Coalition is an initiative of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC). With 2,568 members representing almost 3,000 local churches in 44 states, the Faith and Education Coalition advocates for high-quality education options for all of America’s children.

Website | www.faithandeducation.com
NHCLC/CONEL is the world’s largest Hispanic Christian organization. It serves as a representative voice for the more than 100 million Hispanic Evangelicals assembled in over 40,000 U.S. churches and another 500,000 congregations spread throughout the Spanish-speaking diaspora. For additional information, visit www.nhclc.org.