Continuing investments in diverse public schools: This week, the Department of Education announced 12 new Magnet Schools Assistance Program grants and two additional Fostering Diverse Schools grants, both adding to a cohort of grantees announced in May. More and more communities, across the political spectrum, have recognized the importance of racially and economically diverse schools, and there is a growing demand for funding to support local efforts. Next year, we will continue to urge Congress to expand these programs, building on the small but solid foundation of the 2022-24 appropriations bills. As U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in announcing the new grants, “Diversity is America’s superpower. When students learn alongside those from different backgrounds, their horizons broaden, and more equitable access to enriching, well-rounded education can be achieved.”
The Tenants’ Right to Organize Act would expand federally-supported tenants’ right to organize to Housing Choice Voucher tenants and tenants in LIHTC properties. Led by Senator Fetterman’s office, the bill has seven Senate co-sponsors, and is related to advocacy by the National Housing Law Project and PRRAC begun in 2021-22.
Research briefing on neighborhoods and opportunity on Capitol Hill: Join PRRAC Social Science Advisory Board member Stefanie DeLuca and other leading experts for a timely policy and research discussion, “Improving Neighborhoods to Improve Lives: Reimagining the Power of Place,” next Wednesday, October 9 12:00-1:30 (lunch will be served!). Register here.
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