Before leaving for their August break, the Senate took an important step by passing a bill that includes funding for teacher preparation programs—the programs that help train and support the next generation of great teachers. But funding for teacher preparation programs are still in jeopardy, as the House Committee on Appropriations proposed eliminating funding that is critical to supporting teacher preparation.

Title II-A funding is ZERO.

SEED, TQP, and TSL funding is ZERO.

Funding to support the Office of English Language Acquisition is ZERO.

Eliminating these funds not only negatively impacts the educator workforce, but it harms the academic success of all students who deserve a high-quality educator. Without well-prepared teachers, school districts suffer, classrooms suffer, learning suffers, and students ultimately pay the price.

As the Senate and House work out the final version of the bill, we need to make sure this funding stays in. And if Congress decides to pass a short-term funding bill (called a “continuing resolution”), it’s critical that they make it clear: teacher preparation programs must be funded.

Now is the time to speak up. NCTR has created a Teacher Residency Action Network (see below) to make it easy for you and your community to take action and urge Congress to also protect and prioritize funding for teacher preparation programs. Our schools—and our students—are counting on it.

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How to Email Your Members of Congress Using Action Network

1. After reading these instructions, use the form below.

Please use the following instructions to help you fill out and submit the form below.

2. Enter Your Contact Information

Fill in your name, home address, personal email, and phone number.

Use your personal (not work) email and home mailing address. Your home address ensures messages go to your correct Congressional representatives.

3. Review the Pre-Written Message

A message supporting teacher preparation programs will be automatically generated.

You can customize it with your own words or personal story to make it more impactful.

4. Click “Send Letter” or “Start Writing”

Once you’re satisfied with the message, just click the button to send it.

The system will automatically route your email to your U.S. Senators and Representative based on your home address.

5. Share the Campaign

After you send your message, you’ll see options to share the campaign via social media, email, or text. Spread the word to friends, family, and coworkers!

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Reminder: This activity is considered lobbying. Please use your personal email and home mailing address. If you’re unsure about participation rules, check with your general counsel.