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Representative Tom Cole logo

Education

As a former educator, I understand how important it is for our children to have access to a quality education, one of the most important building blocks for success.

I believe strongly in the authority of parents to direct the education and upbringing of their children. I am committed to ensuring parents and teachers have the tools and resources necessary to provide a world class education to our children, regardless of economic status. During my time on the House Appropriations Committee’s panel for educational funding, I was a strong supporter of Head Start, which provides educational opportunities to low-income children, and GEAR UP and TRIO, which are designed to help disadvantaged students prepare for and succeed in college.

Our youth’s future success, and Oklahoma's too, requires access to affordable and quality higher education. With a better-educated workforce, Oklahoma can attract, retain, and expand high-paying jobs. I believe federal financial assistance for students should be available to students regardless of whether they are seeking a degree at a four-year institution or pursuing career and technical education (CTE). CTE is a vital component of our secondary and postsecondary educational system.