WASHINGTON, D.C. - Archbishop George J. Lucas of Omaha, Nebraska, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) Committee on Catholic Education, applauded recent action by the Senate and the House to reauthorize the Elementary Secondary and Education Act (ESEA). The Senate passed the Every Child Achieves Act (S. 1177), July 16. The House of Representatives passed the Student Success Act (HR 5), July 8. Both bills contain significant improvements for providing equitable services for students and teachers in religious, private and independent schools.   

"This is wonderful news and a testament to what can be achieved when we put the needs of children first," Archbishop Lucas said. "The members of Congress, by passing legislation to reauthorize ESEA have put us one step closer towards restoring equity and ensuring that all children are afforded the educational services, benefits and opportunity our government has to offer, regardless of the type of school they attend."

Since 1965, ESEA has upheld the principle that students in need, regardless of whether they attend a public or private school, are entitled to an equitable share of services and benefits.