ALA and AASL Endorse Bicameral Quality Educator Partnership Act to Address Educator Shortages
The American Library Association (ALA) and the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) have officially endorsed the bicameral Quality Educator Partnership Act (QEPA). This legislation, introduced in the U.S. Senate (S.5549) by Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and in the U.S. House of Representatives (H.R.10530) by Congresswoman Alma Adams (D-NC), aims to tackle nationwide educator shortages. The bill's provisions specifically include school library media specialists or use the broader term 'educator,' which encompasses them. QEPA seeks to build federal infrastructure, remove barriers to the education profession, expand preparation pathways, and strengthen data and accountability. It also promotes initiatives to make education a more attractive, affordable, and sustainable career choice. Key co-sponsors include Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-CT), and Rep. Emilia Sykes (D-OH).
