Press Releases

Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12), Senior Republican on the House Education and Labor K-12 Subcommittee, today introduced the Educational Flexibility for Families Act, legislation that requires K-12 schools to provide an option for students to safely attend in-person classes for the upcoming school year in order to be eligible for additional federal assistance.

“This school year will look different than previous years due to the impact of COVID-19, but ultimately the decision regarding what type of learning environment will work best for each student should be made by the family,” said Congressman Allen. “My bill would ensure that the option for in-person learning is on the table and available for families around the country who want their children to safely return to the classroom this fall.

“It has been well-documented that the closure of our schools can cause our students to fall months behind academically, and it can also disproportionately affect our must vulnerable students. The question should not be if we reopen schools, but how can we safely reopen schools in order to provide families with the option of in-person learning. I am proud of the education leaders in my district who are committed to providing families the flexibility they need this school year – whether it’s in the classroom, distance learning, homeschooling or a hybrid model.”

Full text of Congressman Allen’s bill is available here.

Congressman Allen introduces the Educational Flexibility for Families Act

Background: The American Academy of Pediatrics recently released guidance for schools, stating “that all policy considerations for the coming school year should start with a goal of having students physically present in school.”