For example, in promoting effective education and high standards, we will propose changes to Title V of the HEA that focus on recruiting the next generation of teachers, preparing them well, and supporting them in their first few critical years. We must give teachers the education and support that they need to teach to higher standards. The reauthorized HEA should simplify program delivery and improve management, and that is our third guiding principle for reauthorization. Students and postsecondary institutions should continue to receive outstanding customer service in a predictable and seamless way so that they are assured of aid and can plan ahead. Federal programs should be simplified and burden reduced as much as possible.
Students deserve a friendly system when they seek information about financial aid and apply for it.
We are examining ways that the HEA could encourage a streamlined delivery system for student financial aid. And our fourth principle is that we must improve outreach to potential students and ensure strong links among elementary and secondary education, postsecondary education, and employment. Too many young people lose their way between high school and the world of work. With this in mind, we will strengthen the TRIO programs, which provide students with needed information and support so that they will be ready to go to college. As this testimony indicates, our vision for higher education includes tax incentives to help families pay for college, as well as major increases in funding for important postsecondary education programs and a Higher Education Act that is even stronger than it is today.