HEA Testimony

Testimony Regarding the

The Higher Education Act Reauthorization (H.R. 6)

The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the oldest and largest Hispanic organization in the United States. Since 1929 we have been working to increase the number of Hispanic students graduating from secondary and post secondary schools. Our LULAC National Scholarship Fund, started in 1930, has awarded more than $10 million to deserving students attending college. In the 1950's LULAC created the Little School of the 400 to teach Hispanic preschoolers 400 English words to prepare them for school. This program became the model for Headstart during the Johnson administration. The LULAC National Educational Service Centers, a network of 15 counseling centers, works with more than 18,000 students a year, encouraging them to stay in school, graduate and enroll in college. And our more than 700 local chapters have worked closely with schools and parent teacher organizations to open educational opportunities for Hispanic students and ensure their participation in higher education.

The more than 115,000 LULAC members throughout the United States firmly believes that we must ensure that the revised Higher Education Act increases opportunities for Hispanic Americans in postsecondary institutions. The current underrepresentation of Hispanics in higher education is a national disgrace and a serious problem for the future competitiveness of our country. We believe that the following changes to the Higher Education Act should be implemented to improve Hispanic participation in Higher Education:

Hispanic American participation in the six programs comprising TRIO must be increased. The disparity between the need in the Hispanic community and its participation in TRIO is simply to great to allow the program's allocation of funding to continue as usual. We suggest that prior experience points be reduced and that programs serving underrepresented populations and areas be given special consideration.

The number of institutions designated as Hispanic Serving Institutions needs to be increased and they should be accorded many of the same benefits provided to Historically Black Colleges and Universities. This includes greater access to Library and Information grants under Title I, increased funding, new grants for graduated and professional programs, and increased participation in federal student financial aid programs.

Finally, the revised Higher Education Act should dramatically increase participation of community based organizations in its efforts to enroll and graduate students from disadvantaged backgrounds. These organizations are able to bring in volunteers, successful role models from similar backgrounds, and parents to motivate students and help them make the connection between academic performance and a successful and satisfying career.

Thank you.