EDUCATION

My opponent voted for and heavily supported President Bush's "No Child Left Behind Act". This was a terrible mistake,
with tragic implications for our children.

The NCLB Act requires public schools to maintain a certain score level on standardized tests, in order to be eligible to receive federal funding. But this policy is based on a flawed theory. The act punishes schools that are not able to attain high test scores, rather than giving the lower-testing schools the money they need to achieve their goals.

At the same time we must ensure that our schools continue to provide the basis for a balanced, rounded education, including adequate funding and consideration for music and arts programs.  For the benefit of many students, and for the economy, adequate provision for vocational education must also be included in our planning.

It's kind of like a self-fulfilling prophecy, and this is just one way that the Republicans are undermining public schools.
Since schools with low test scores are not able to receive federal aid, many are forced to close their doors permanently. A
substantial amount of school closings has led to school overcrowding and an increase in the number of students per
classroom.

The only responsible solution is to fully fund public schools, so that every student may have a real opportunity to succeed.  And we need to provide adequate resources for teachers, so that they can do their jobs to the best of their abilities.