People become teachers because they want to make a difference and help future generations learn and grow. As a former teacher and proud father of a current teacher, I know how hard they work for our kids and their futures, and I know children benefit the most when teachers, parents, and their communities work together.  

House Republicans put forward legislation, H.R. 5, that unfortunately would bring unnecessary culture wars into the classroom. It would require teachers to publish their lesson plans online in advance for parental approval, without providing any resources to meet these new demands. H.R. 5 would also force teachers to out transgender students to their parents, even if the child has concerns about their safety at home. I voted against this legislation because America’s students, teachers, and parents deserve better than this harmful policy.  

As our country faces the devastating impacts of gun violence in our schools, and state governments create policies to ban books, censor curriculum, and exclude students, it is important now more than ever that Congress stands up to ensure our children go to school in supportive and safe environments where they receive a comprehensive education.     

I am committed to ensuring children have what they need to grow and thrive at school, and that starts with cultivating an environment of cooperation between schools and parents and giving teachers resources to do their job. I will keep working in Washington to advocate for teachers, students, and parents. 

To follow what I’m working on both in Washington and in Connecticut, visit my Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, or follow me on Instagram. To sign up for my e-newsletter, click here.     

Regards,

John B. Larson
Member of Congress