Carson Statement on Funding to Protect Teaching Jobs

INDIANAPOLIS - Today, Congressman André Carson released the following statement upon news that Indiana will be receiving $207 million to protect teaching jobs across the state. The funds are being allocated as a part of the Education Jobs and Medicaid Assistance Act, which Congressman Carson voted to pass in early August.

"Today's announcement is wonderful news for teachers, students and parents alike. As a new school year gets underway, these funds will offer some reassurance that our best teachers will remain in the classroom where they belong.

"The aid package enacted into law this August includes $10 billion to fill gaps in state education funding. This critical infusion is already being put to work by saving and creating an estimated 161,000 public school teaching positions-including 3,600 in Indiana.

"Hoosier educators who perform well deserve to feel that their jobs are safe and their careers in education have a long, promising future. In light of recent state and local budget cuts, low pay and layoffs, this infusion of federal funds will help teachers to focus less on the uncertainty during these challenging times and more on educating our children each and every day."

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