As a former college professor myself, I have seen first-hand the opportunities that arise when students have the chance to pursue a college education.  I believe a strong education is the foundation for achieving the American Dream.  Consequently, I recently joined the House Community College Caucus, because I believe so strongly that community colleges in Oklahoma play a significant role in educating our citizens and preparing them for the future.  This caucus was formed specifically to emphasize the importance and distinctive role that community colleges play in the America education system and to educate Congress about the key legislative issues of these institutions.

In January, I joined many of my Oklahoma colleagues in voting for H.R. 5, the College Student Relief Act of 2007.  This act will lower the interest rate for undergraduate students receiving Stafford loans from 6.8 percent to 3.4 percent over the net four years.  This bill is a step in the right direction towards lowering the cost of college for students, but the Community College Caucus is taking further steps to provide an affordable education for America's next generation of students.  Raising the Pell Grant maximum is a chief priority for the caucus, because Pell Grants provide essential financial support to more than two million community college students each year by funding tuition, books, living expenses and transportation.

Reauthorizing the Higher Education Act (HEA) is also a top priority of mine.  Last week I asked the Subcommittee on Labor, HHS, and Education for their support to increase GEAR UP and TRIO funding.  I will continue to promote support in Congress for key HEA programs such as GEAR UP and TRIO.  Both programs have a proven track record of effectively preparing Oklahoma students financially and academically for higher education.  Due to the success of GEAR UP and TRIO, millions of low-income and first-generation students are now equipped with the fundamental tools they need to successfully pursue a college degree.

There is no doubt that the fate of America depends on the education of its people.  As the Representative of Oklahoma's Fourth District-which includes community colleges and universities, I will continue to work hard to ensure that every student has the financial and academic tools necessary to pursue a higher education.

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