NAPE Statement on Confirmation of Betsy DeVos as Education Secretary

The National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity is disappointed in the Senate’s action to confirm the nomination of Betsy DeVos as Secretary of Education. Throughout her testimony before the Senate HELP Committee, Ms. DeVos clearly demonstrated that she did not possess the fundamental experience required to lead the nation’s public education agency tasked with promoting student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access.

Education is not a partisan issue. It is, in fact, the foundation that fortifies our society, stimulates innovation, and strengthens our economy. Ensuring that our nation provides a safe, inclusive, state-of-the-art, quality education for all Americans is paramount in our efforts to maintain our competitiveness in the world market. It is our duty as a nation to stand strong on issues that protect and promote equity, diversity, and inclusion with an education system for EVERY student, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, special needs, or economic challenges. It is our hope that through this confirmation process Ms. DeVos has gained insight and understanding of the importance of the country’s public education system and its contribution to strengthening the nation’s people that “are” America’s workforce.