Congressman Bilirakis has been a long-time proponent of the public education system, both in the Florida Legislature and now in Congress. As a father of four boys, all of whom graduated from or currently attend public school, he understands the link between a robust public education system and a vital and thriving nation. 

While education is primarily an issue that is governed by individual state legislatures, the Congressman has been supportive of the federal government’s role in ensuring equity for students from low socio-economic backgrounds and for those students with special needs.  As such, he has regularly supported increases in Title I and IDEA funding.  The Congressman is also a long-time proponent of Career, Technical and quality Apprenticeship education programs, and has supported legislation to strengthen the opportunities for students throughout the nation. 

Congressman Bilirakis has also previously supported legislation to increase access to higher education by raising the maximum Pell Grant (federal assistance that deserving students do not have to repay) award. He also has voted to improve the Head Start program to help close the learning gap between children from disadvantaged families and their more well-off peers. In the 113th Congress, Bilirakis supported legislation, which is now law, to help make college more affordable by permanently reducing interest rates on federally-subsidized student loans. He also voted in favor of legislation that would return the control of the public school system to localities, by empowering teachers, families, and local school boards.