Betsy DeVos
Education Secretary-designate Betsy DeVos testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, at her confirmation hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)
(Carolyn Kaster | AP)
U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, D-Bloomfield Twp., doesn't plan to support West Michigan native Betsy DeVos for the Secretary of Education post.
In prepared remarks delivered on the Senate floor Tuesday afternoon, Peters referenced his father's experience teaching English and his own history attending and sending his children to public schools.
Public schools are vital to the growth of the country, Peters said - which is why he's concerned that DeVos, who does not have experience in public education, was President Donald Trump's choice for Secretary of Education.
"In a time of growing income inequality, public schools can - and do - provide a ladder of opportunity in communities across the nation, urban, rural, and suburban alike," he said. "I stand with the many educators and parents in Michigan and across this nation when I say: Mrs. DeVos lacks the experience, qualifications and the right vision to oversee our nation's education system."
"Simply put, our children deserve better," he said.
Peters specifically criticized DeVos' record advocating for charter schools in Michigan and other states and comments made during her hearing regarding measuring student success by growth or proficiency and questioning regarding the the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
"Her approach to education has failed the children of Michigan and her confirmation process gives me no reason to think she will bring a more successful approach to our nation," he said.
The U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions will vote on DeVos' recommendation Jan. 31. If moved to the Senate floor, DeVos requires a simple Senate majority to be confirmed.
Michigan's other U.S. Senator, Debbie Stabenow, said earlier this month that she doesn't plan to support DeVos' nomination. But many influential Republicans in the Senate, including HELP Committee Chair Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., are backing Trump's nominee.
Several Republican members of Michigan's Congressional delegation have also come out in support of DeVos, including U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, who said on the House floor last week that DeVos is a "passionate and dedicated servant with a big heart for kids" who has made it her life's mission to ensure access to education for all children.
"I know that Betsy is up to the challenge of ensuring our children are prepared to compete and thrive in our ever changing world," he said on the House floor.