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Should welfare assistance be based on a student's grades?

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The Tennessee state Legislature considered a bill in 2013 that would link welfare benefits to a student's grades.  Although it did not pass, the bill would have required students of families receiving TANF (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) payments to maintain a certain level of academic performance in order for the family to continue to receive support. 

Supporters of this argue that it will encourage parents of low-income families to become more involved in their child's education.

"To achieve a quality education is like a three legged stool. The state has put a lot of responsibility on schools and teachers to improve student performance ... The third leg of the stool (probably the most important leg) is the parents. ... What my bill would do is put some responsibility on parents for their child’s performance," said Stacey Campfield (R), sponsor of the bill

On the other hand, opponents argue that basing benefits on student performance is cruel and ultimately hurts the child. Losing welfare benefits could reduce a child's access to food assistance, which can generate negative school performance. In addition, some argue that the measure sets an unfair standard that targets children with special needs or learning disabilities.

There are currently no related bills being considered in the New Hampshire Legislature on this issue.

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