NAESP's Statement of Support for Passage of the FY18 Omnibus Appropriations Bill

Alexandria, Va., March 23, 2018 -- The National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) announces its support for the FY18 omnibus appropriations bill, which passed the U.S. Senate on Thursday, March 22. The bill maintains funding at $2.055 billion for Title II, Part A, which is the only federal funding source dedicated to the preparation, training and support of teachers and principals, and is critical to improving educator quality and boosting student outcomes. The legislation also includes funding increases to other federal education programs important to principals, as well as resources to address school safety issues.

“The FY18 Omnibus Appropriations bill makes critical investments in education programs that help principals better serve students,” said NAESP’s executive director, Dr. L. Earl Franks, CAE. “The preservation of Title II, Part A funding will help ensure principals continue to have access to high-quality preparation, professional development, and mentorship opportunities. This legislation also gives principals and school personnel additional resources and training to address school violence, and provides increased funding for mental health services for schools.”

Highlights of the FY18 Omnibus Appropriations Bill

• Title I Funding – increases funding by $300 million to $15.8 billion.
• Title II, Part A – maintains current funding level of $2.055 billion.
• Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants (Title IV-A) – increases funding by $700 million to $1.1 billion.  
• STOP School Violence Act – provides $75 million for FY18 and $100 million in subsequent years for school violence prevention and training grants.
• IDEA – increases funding by $275 million to $12.3 billion.
• 21st Century Community Learning Centers: increases funding by $20 million to $1.2 billion.
• Head Start – increases funding by $610 million.

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About NAESP Principals are the primary catalysts for creating lasting foundations for learning. Since 1921, the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) has been the leading advocate for elementary and middle-level principals in the United States and worldwide. NAESP advances the profession by developing policy, advancing advocacy, and providing professional development and resources for instructional leadership, including specialized support and mentoring for early career principals. Key focus areas include pre-K–3 education, school safety, technology and digital learning, and effective educator evaluation. For more information about NAESP, please visit www.naesp.org. NAESP administers the National Principals Resource Center, the American Student Council Association, and the President's Education Awards & American Citizenship Awards Programs. Attachment:

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/38ba25f4-6117-4921-80df-d82e31253fac

Kaylen Tucker
National Association of Elementary School Principals
703-518-6257
[email protected]