WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) led a bipartisan effort alongside Representatives Mark Pocan (WI-02), Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15), and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) to introduce the annual Bipartisan Public Schools Week Resolution. This resolution reaffirms Congress’s commitment to strengthening public education and recognizing the vital role public schools play in shaping America’s future. From February 24-28, 2025, this national observance will honor the dedication of students, educators, and advocates whose hard work and passion drive academic excellence and opportunity for all.
"A strong public education system is vital to our nation’s prosperity, and I remain steadfast in my commitment to ensuring our schools have the resources and support they need to thrive," said Rep Fitzpatrick. "Public Schools Week is a time to celebrate the educators, parents, and advocates who make these institutions pillars of learning and opportunity--their dedication shapes not only the minds of our children but strengthens the very foundation of our future. To the devoted public school teachers, education professionals, and staff—especially those in our PA-1 community—thank you for your tireless efforts to inspire, educate, and prepare our next generation of leaders."
“As a public school graduate from kindergarten through college, I’m proud to recognize the 9 out of every 10 students in America that attend a public school,” Rep. Pocan said. “I am committed to strengthening our public schools so every child receives a high-quality education experience. Communities are stronger, and schools are better when we all work together to support public education. Our shared future and success depend on the support we give to public education today.”
"As a senior member of the House Committee on Education & Workforce, a former local school board member, and having attended public schools growing up, I remain committed to the role public schools play in helping build strong communities,” Rep. Thompson said. “Every child deserves access to a high-quality education, which helps foster growth and encourages students to live up to their greatest potential. We must work to strengthen our public school system to ensure America’s future.”
“A quality system of public education system is critical to students, families, the economy, and democracy,” said Rep Suzanne Bonamici. “I have years of experience as an involved public school parent and volunteer, and I remain thankful for the dedicated work of teachers and school staff who show up every day to support students and families. I am pleased to co-lead the bipartisan Public Schools Week Resolution, and I will continue to advocate for the policies and resources schools need to provide every student with the opportunity for success.”
During Public Schools Week, national education groups representing teachers, principals, superintendents, parents, civil rights and disability advocates, and religious organizations highlight the importance of our public schools and the positive difference they make in shaping the future of our country. Public schools are open to every child – regardless of ability, wealth, country of origin, or needs, and by supporting public school systems, we strengthen our country.
Organizations Supporting Public Schools Week Include: The School Superintendents Association (AASA), American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, American School Counselors Association, American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Americans United for Separation of Church and State, American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, Association of Educational Service Agencies, Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO), Baptist Joint Committee on Religious Liberty, Center for American Progress (CAP), Coalition for Community Schools, Council of Administrators of Special Education, Institute for Educational Leadership, Healthy Schools Campaign, Learning Disabilities Association of America, Learning Forward, National Association of Elementary School Principals, National Association of Secondary School Principals, National Association of School Psychologists, National Association of State Directors of Special Education, National Center for Learning Disabilities, National Council of Teachers of English, National Disability Rights Network (NDRN), National Education Association (NEA), National Education Association Retirees Association, National Military Families Association, National Rural Education Association, National School Boards Association, National School Public Relations Association, National PTA, Network for Public Education, School Social Work Association of America, The Arc, Public Funds Public Schools, Education Law Center, EdTrust