Rep. Chu Praises Department of Education Disaggregation Program for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders

Washington, DC – Today, Department of Education Secretary John King announced a $1 million grant competition for states to gather and study disaggregated data on Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) students beyond the breakdowns of race and ethnicity currently collected. The purpose is to identify gaps in educational achievement and opportunities, as well as to improve the college and career readiness of underserved AAPI communities and English language learners. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27), chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) released the following statement:

“I am thrilled that the Department of Education is taking another step forward to combat the model minority myth by encouraging states to disaggregate data on the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community and to reveal the true educational needs of our diverse AAPI student populations. It’s impossible to ensure all students are getting the services and opportunities they deserve if we cannot even identify who is struggling.

"I applaud Secretary King for prioritizing our community’s needs and taking action within the first two months of taking the helm at the Department. This new grant will help to ensure that we can identify the critical student differences between the various AAPI communities and ensure that we can better address the needs of all of our country’s students. I look forward to seeing the results of this program and working with the Department through its implementation.”