Education can change a child’s life. It is one of the most effective ways to reduce poverty, strengthen communities and improve overall health. Investing in the future of children around the globe will shape our world for the better. There are a staggering 263 million kids around the world, according to UNESCO, who won’t make it into a classroom this year.

It doesn’t have to be this way, and there’s something we can do about it.

Right now the Global Partnership for Education is launching a new plan to give millions more kids the education that is their fundamental right. But that plan requires resources to make it a reality. Unfortunately, earlier this year, the White House tried to cut funding for global education. But our leaders in Congress are pushing back.

I hope we can count on our senators, Susan Collins and Angus King, and our representative, Chellie Pingree, to help make sure the U.S. shows leadership with the Global Partnership for Education.

Jessica D’Amico

Portland