John,

Across the country, teachers are working harder than ever to support our children and their families as we navigate the difficulties of education during a pandemic.

And with this administration’s recent move to formally recognize teachers as “essential” workers, it’s more important than ever that our federal government do its part to provide support to our educators who will be on the front lines of the pandemic as schools begin to reopen.

Too often, teachers have to take on immense debt in order to finance their education and begin their careers -- which can discourage passionate individuals from joining and staying in the profession. That’s why I introduced the Teacher Loan Forgiveness Improvement Act, which would allow educators to receive up to $30,000 in student loan forgiveness.

Our teachers are critical to equipping our children with the tools they need to succeed -- an investment in the economic security of our educators is an investment in the next generation. Will you sign on to call on Congress to pass this long overdue bill to give our teachers the lift they deserve?

Thank you for using your voice to stand with Coastal Virginia’s teachers,

Elaine Luria