A resolution designating the week of February 23 through February 27, 2026, as "National Public Schools Week".

Bill Number

S.Res. 621

Origin Chamber

Senate

Congress

119th Congress, Session 2

Policy Area

Education

Status

Passed Senate

Latest Action

2026-02-26: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S716; text: CR S711-712)

Last Updated

2026-03-05T16:28:35Z

AI-Generated Summary

Purpose

This Senate Resolution (S. Res. 621) aims to recognize the vital role of public schools in American society by officially designating the week of February 23 through February 27, 2026, as "National Public Schools Week." It highlights the contributions of public education to democracy, national unity, and individual success.

Key Provisions

• Recognition of Public Education's Importance: The resolution includes several "Whereas" clauses emphasizing that public schools:
• Serve as a cornerstone of 21st-century democracy by teaching shared values and beliefs.
• Educate 87% of U.S. children and prepare them to contribute to society, the economy, and civic life.
• Should prioritize support from federal, state, and local lawmakers to strengthen schools, empower school leaders (like superintendents and principals) in partnership with educators and parents, and fund essential services such as counseling, extracurricular activities, and mental health support.
• Promotion of Inclusive Environments: Public schools are encouraged to create safe, high-quality settings where all students, regardless of background or location, can learn critical thinking, problem-solving, and relationship-building skills from an early age.
• Call for Congressional Support: Congress is urged to advance equal opportunity, implement evidence-based practices, and pursue ongoing improvements in public education to ensure every child receives a high-quality education that unlocks their full potential.
• Acknowledgment of Support Systems: It notes the role of federal, state, and local funding in providing resources like well-equipped classrooms, trained educators, nutritious meals, and afterschool programs.
• Appreciation for Educators and Communities: Teachers, paraprofessionals (assistants who support classroom instruction), principals, and parents are praised for fostering well-rounded education, joy in learning, and strong community ties.
• Official Designation: The Senate formally resolves to designate the specified week as "National Public Schools Week" to honor these efforts.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This is a non-binding Senate resolution, so it introduces no changes to existing laws or statutes. It serves as a symbolic gesture rather than enforceable legislation.

Potential Impacts

• On Government Agencies: Minimal direct impact; it may encourage federal agencies like the Department of Education to promote awareness during the designated week, but no new funding or mandates are required.
• On Citizens: Could raise public awareness about public schools' value, potentially inspiring community involvement, volunteerism, or advocacy for education funding. Students, parents, and educators might feel recognized, fostering morale.
• On International Relations: No impacts, as this is a domestic recognition focused on U.S. public education.

Main Stakeholders Affected

• Educators and School Leaders: Teachers, paraprofessionals, principals, and superintendents, who are highlighted for their hard work in improving outcomes.
• Students and Families: The 87% of U.S. children in public schools and their parents, benefiting from the emphasis on inclusive, high-quality education and support services.
• Lawmakers and Policymakers: Federal, state, and local officials, urged to prioritize public school funding and reforms.
• Communities: Local stakeholders involved in school partnerships, extracurriculars, and mental health programs.

Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications

• Legal: As a simple resolution agreed to by the Senate, it has no legal force and does not require House approval or presidential signature. It cannot create obligations or allocate funds.
• Constitutional: Aligns with the U.S. Constitution's limited federal role in education (primarily a state responsibility under the 10th Amendment), serving only as an expression of congressional sentiment without infringing on state authority.
• Political: Signals bipartisan support for public education (sponsored by senators from both parties), potentially influencing future debates on education policy, funding, or equity. It may encourage similar recognitions in other years to build ongoing advocacy.

This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.

Sponsor

Sen. Collins, Susan M. [R-ME]

Cosponsors (17)

Sen. Reed, Jack [D-RI], Sen. Hirono, Mazie K. [D-HI], Sen. Padilla, Alex [D-CA], Sen. Kaine, Tim [D-VA], Sen. King, Angus S., Jr. [I-ME], Sen. Durbin, Richard J. [D-IL], Sen. Merkley, Jeff [D-OR], Sen. Shaheen, Jeanne [D-NH], Sen. Markey, Edward J. [D-MA], Sen. Hassan, Margaret Wood [D-NH], Sen. Sanders, Bernard [I-VT], Sen. Welch, Peter [D-VT], Sen. Slotkin, Elissa [D-MI], Sen. Murray, Patty [D-WA], Sen. Baldwin, Tammy [D-WI], Sen. Luján, Ben Ray [D-NM], Sen. Kim, Andy [D-NJ]

Recent Actions

• 2026-02-26: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S716; text: CR S711-712)
• 2026-02-26: Passed/agreed to in Senate: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent.

Bill Versions

• Designating the week of February 23 through February 27, 2026, as National Public Schools Week. — issued 2026-02-26 — PDF (3 pages)