Department of Education Defense (DED)

An Act to Establish the Department of Education Defense (DED) and Construct a National Education Center

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,

Section 1: Short Title and National Education Center

This Act may be cited as the "Department of Education Defense Act and National Education Center Authorization Act."

To ensure the establishment of the highest quality of education for all states, elevate the national standard of learning, and provide universal access to education, this Act authorizes the following:

• Construction of a National Education Center (NEC) on federal land. The NEC shall be an octagonal building designed to match the scale and prominence of the Pentagon, serving as a national hub for educational innovation and resource development.
• Free public education through the 14th grade or the completion of an Associate's Degree (A.S.), whichever comes first. This will eliminate financial barriers to higher education and ensure a well-qualified workforce.

Section 2: Establishment of the Department of Education Defense

(a) Creation: There is established an executive department to be known as the Department of Education Defense (DED).

(b) Secretary: The DED shall be headed by a Secretary, appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Secretary shall possess extensive experience in education, national security, or a relevant field.

Section 3: Establishment of the Department of Education Defense

(a) Creation: There is established an executive department to be known as the Department of Education Defense (DED).

(b) Secretary: The DED shall be headed by a Secretary, appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Secretary shall possess extensive experience in education, national security, or a relevant field.

Section 4: Mandate and Mission

(a) Mandate: The DED shall have the mandate to protect and enhance the depth of defense of education, encompassing a broad spectrum of institutions and resources critical to national security and innovation. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Research universities
• National laboratories
• Public and private K-14 schools
• Critical infrastructure supporting educational institutions

(b) Mission: The DED shall be to:

(1) Ensure the resilience, security, and accessibility of the nation's educational assets, safeguarding against potential disruptions and threats. (2) Promote excellence in teaching, research, and learning across all disciplines, fostering a highly skilled and adaptable workforce. (3) Establish a national standard for core curriculum in K-14 education, including: * Finances and Economics * History * Chemistry * Physics * Mathematics, including Calculus * Reading (emphasis on extensive reading) * Writing * Computer Science * Mandatory Typing Proficiency * Introduction to Laptops, Tablets, and E-books

(4) Develop Immersive Learning Experiences: In collaboration with the gaming industry and educational software developers, the DED shall establish a competitive grant program to encourage the development of innovative and engaging curriculum materials utilizing Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies.

* **Grant Criteria:**  Grants will be awarded to projects that propose the most effective and engaging curriculum experiences in various subjects aligned with the national standards. These experiences  should incorporate:

    * Compelling CGI lessons

    * Interactive learning environments

    * Assessment tools and grading systems

    * Integration of AR and VR technologies

 

* **Focus Areas:** The DED will prioritize grant proposals that leverage VR/AR for:

    * **STEM Education:**  VR simulations can be used for:

        * Designing and testing airplanes, ships, and other structures using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software in VR.

        * Building and testing virtual circuits in electronics courses.

        * Exploring the universe and celestial mechanics in astronomy classes. 

    * **Project-Based Learning:**  Students can collaborate in VR environments to tackle real-world design challenges.

 

* **Pilot Programs:** The DED shall partner with schools to implement pilot programs utilizing the VR/AR curriculum materials developed through the grant program. These programs will assess the effectiveness of this approach in enhancing student learning outcomes, engagement, and interest in STEM fields.

(5) Blended Learning for Practical Skills: The DED, in collaboration with vocational schools and industry experts, may establish optional blended learning programs for students interested in developing practical skills in STEM fields. These programs will combine VR/AR modules with hands-on activities:

* **VR Learning Modules:** VR modules can introduce students to basic concepts, safety protocols, and virtual simulations of work environments.

* **Hands-on Training:** Practical skills will be reinforced through workshops and supervised practice in dedicated facilities.

Reward System for Student Achievement and School Performance

• Increased School Funding: The DED will establish a tiered funding system for school districts. Schools with demonstrably high student achievement on standardized tests aligned with the national curriculum and high student participation in VR/AR and blended learning programs will receive increased funding to support continued innovation and excellence.
• Technical Degree Scholarships: The DED will award full scholarships for Bachelor's degrees in technical fields (STEM, Engineering, Information Technology) to 10% of graduating high school seniors from each participating school district. Scholarship selection will be based on academic merit, participation in VR/AR and blended learning programs, and financial need.
• Medical Degree Loan Repayment: Students who pursue careers in medicine and commit to practicing in underserved areas for a designated period after graduation will be eligible for loan repayment assistance programs funded by the DED. Up to 50% of their medical school debt may be forgiven under this program.

 

·       Section 5: Educational Programs and Incentives

·       (a) WRLD Curriculum Framework: The Department of Education Defense (DED) shall establish a national WRLD curriculum framework encompassing the following core subjects:

·       * **Writing:** Develop VR/AR experiences that promote collaborative storytelling and creative writing skills.

·       * **Reading Literacy:** Create interactive virtual environments filled with engaging literature to enhance reading comprehension and enjoyment.

·       * **STEM & Finance:** Integrate VR/AR simulations for:

·           * Design and testing (engineering)

·           * Building and testing virtual circuits (electronics)

·           * Exploring the universe (astronomy)

·           * Financial literacy simulations

·       (b) VR/AR Development Grants: The DED, in collaboration with the gaming industry and educational software developers, shall establish a competitive grant program to encourage the development of innovative and engaging VR/AR curriculum materials aligned with the WRLD framework.

·       * **Grant Criteria:** Grants will be awarded to projects that propose the most effective and engaging curriculum experiences in various subjects aligned with the national standards. These experiences should incorporate:

·           * Compelling CGI lessons

·           * Interactive learning environments

·           * Assessment tools and grading systems

·           * Integration of AR and VR technologies

·        

·       * **Focus Areas:** The DED will prioritize grant proposals that leverage VR/AR for:

·           * STEM Education: 

·               * VR simulations for designing and testing airplanes, ships, and structures using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software in VR.

·               * Building and testing virtual circuits in electronics courses.

·               * Exploring the universe and celestial mechanics in astronomy classes.  

·           * Project-Based Learning: Students can collaborate in VR environments to tackle real-world design challenges.

·       (c) Online Learning and Accessibility: The DED, in collaboration with educational institutions and technology providers, will establish best practices and guidelines for effective online learning models. This will include:

·       * Curriculum Adaptation: Strategies for adapting existing curriculum materials for effective online delivery.

·       * Teacher Training: Professional development programs to equip educators with the skills and tools necessary to excel in online learning environments.

·       * Student Support Services: Ensuring all students have access to the necessary technology and internet connectivity to participate in online learning.

·       (d) Standardized Testing with Security Measures: The DED will establish secure testing procedures for online assessments aligned with the national curriculum. These procedures may include:

·       * Digital Signatures: Implementing digital signatures on tests to ensure authenticity.

·       * Webcam Monitoring: Utilizing webcam monitoring during major testing periods to dete

Section 6: Curriculum Development and Oversight

·       (a) WRLD Curriculum Development Process: The DED shall lead the development of the WRLD curriculum framework in collaboration with a Curriculum Development Committee. This committee will be composed of:

·       * **Degreed Professional Visionary Teachers:** Experienced educators with a proven track record of innovation and a forward-thinking approach to education. 

·       * **Scientists Across STEM Fields:** Experts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to ensure the curriculum reflects the latest advancements and prepares students for future careers.

·       * **Financial Literacy Experts:**  To develop engaging and age-appropriate curriculum on financial literacy.

·       * **Reading and Writing Specialists:** Experts who can design effective strategies to cultivate strong reading and writing skills.

·       (b) Peer Review Process: All curriculum materials developed by the DED or through VR/AR development grants (outlined in Section 5) will undergo a rigorous peer review process before implementation. Reviewers will be degreed professional teachers with relevant subject matter expertise, scientists specializing in specific STEM fields, or financial literacy professionals, as appropriate for the curriculum material being reviewed.

·       (c) International Collaboration: The DED is encouraged to collaborate with educational institutions and ministries of education from allied countries to:

·       * Share best practices in curriculum development and educational technology.

·       * Foster international exchange programs and joint educational initiatives.

·       * Develop a global perspective within the WRLD curriculum framework.

 

Section 7: Enforcement and Administration

(a) Department of Education Defense (DED): The DED shall be established as an executive department headed by a Secretary appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. The DED shall be responsible for implementing the provisions of this Act, including:

·       Overseeing the development and implementation of the national WRLD curriculum framework (outlined in Section 5).

·       Administering the VR/AR Development Grant program (outlined in Section 5).

·       Establishing and maintaining a national assessment system aligned with the national curriculum (considerations for online testing security measures outlined in Section 5).

·       Distributing increased school funding based on the established criteria (outlined in Section 5).

·       Awarding technical degree scholarships and administering loan repayment programs for medical professionals (outlined in Section 5).

·       Collaborating with educational institutions, technology providers, and industry experts to achieve the goals of this Act.

·       Recruitment and Retention: (Option to choose between Option 1 or Option 2 below)

Option 1: Indirect Mention

The DED is authorized to undertake all necessary actions to recruit and retain qualified personnel to fulfill its mission under this Act.

Option 2: Dedicated Subsection

The DED is authorized to develop and implement a comprehensive recruitment and retention strategy to attract and retain highly qualified personnel with expertise in:

  * Curriculum development (including VR/AR)

  * Educational technology

  * Online learning best practices

  * Assessment development and security

  * Grant administration

  * Data analysis and program evaluation

This strategy may include:

  * Competitive salaries and benefits packages

  * Professional development opportunities

  * A collaborative and innovative work environment

(b) Authorization of Appropriations: There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.

Section 8: International Collaboration

(a) Engagement: The DED shall engage with international partners and allies to strengthen global cooperation in educational defense. This may involve:

• Sharing best practices for educational security
• Collaborating on research and development initiatives
• Conducting joint training exercises for educators and security personnel

(b) Diplomacy: The DED shall promote educational diplomacy initiatives to foster mutual understanding and collaboration. This may involve:

• Supporting student exchange programs
• Organizing international conferences and workshops
• Building partnerships between educational institutions in the U.S. and abroad

Section 9: Oversight, Accountability, and Transparency

This section emphasizes responsible use of funds, program effectiveness, and ensuring a positive learning environment for students.

A. Oversight and Accountability:

• Quarterly Audits: The Department of Education Defense (DED) shall undergo independent audits at least quarterly to ensure all funds appropriated under this Act are used efficiently, effectively, and by the Act's provisions. These audits will be conducted by a reputable independent auditing firm selected through a competitive bidding process.
• Annual Reports: The Secretary of Education shall submit an annual report to Congress detailing the progress made in implementing the Act. This report will include:
• A breakdown of all expenditures made by the DED.
• The effectiveness of the WRLD curriculum framework in improving student learning outcomes.
• The impact of VR/AR technology on student engagement.
• The results of online learning initiatives.
• Recommendations for future improvements to the programs and initiatives established under this Act.
• Public Access: The annual reports and audit results will be made readily available to the public online.

B. Safeguarding Against Fraud:

• Internal Controls: The DED shall establish strong internal controls to prevent and detect fraud, waste, and abuse within its programs and grant funding mechanisms. This includes implementing clear procedures for grant application review, disbursement of funds, and monitoring of grant recipients' activities.
• Whistleblower Protections: The DED shall establish a robust whistleblower protection program to encourage employees and the public to report any suspected fraud, waste, or abuse of funds.

C. Investing in Student Success:

• School Infrastructure Improvements: A portion of the funding allocated under this Act will be dedicated to improving school infrastructure nationwide. This may include:
• Renovations to modernize classrooms and learning spaces.
• Upgrading educational technology within schools, including computers, tablets, and high-speed internet access.
• Providing ergonomic furniture, including desks and chairs, to promote student comfort and well-being during learning.
• Teacher Compensation and Support:
• The DED, in collaboration with state and local governments, will develop strategies to increase teacher salaries and benefits to attract and retain highly qualified educators.
• Funding will be allocated for professional development programs to equip teachers with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively implement the WRLD curriculum and utilize VR/AR technologies in the classroom.
• Student Performance Incentives: A merit-based incentive program will be established to reward schools with exceptional student performance outcomes measured through standardized testing and other relevant metrics. These incentives could include additional funding for school resources or recognition programs for teachers and staff.