SETDA is Encouraged by the House Committee Title IVa Appropriation
The State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA), the principal membership association representing U.S. state and territorial digital learning leaders released the following statement applauding the House Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Subcommittee’s decision to appropriate $1 billion in funding for the Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grant Program (SSAEG – Title IV-A) for fiscal year 2017. The program, established by the Every Student Succeeds Act, intends to provide critical resources for state and local education technology investments, including supporting essential professional learning opportunities for both educators and school leaders.
“While the subcommittee’s proposed SSAEG funding level falls below the program’s authorization level of $1.67 billion, it exceeds both the Administration’s recommendation of $500 million and the Senate Appropriation Committee’s $300 million mark. This investment is required to help states meet the technology needs of digital-age administrators, educators and students. ” stated SETDA’s Executive Director, Dr. Tracy Weeks. “We encourage the House to adopt the $1 billion funding level recommendation to avoid leaving gaps in support for digital learning.”
SETDA will continue to advocate for full funding throughout the appropriations process.