Jon Kyl: “I am pleased we will finally have the opportunity to discuss our ideas for improving elementary and secondary education.…”

“I am pleased we will finally have the opportunity to discuss our ideas for improving elementary and secondary education. Of course, one of the reasons we are discussing elementary and secondary education this year is that the ESEA, the statute authorizing most of the Federal Government's education programs in this area, is expiring. The time has come to act. The American people have been sending us a message to do something to improve America's schools. I agree with the American people about the importance of this issue. If we can get education right in this country, almost everything else should follow. A better educated citizenry will give us an advantage in technology and national defense, better trade and economic opportunities, better citizenship and stronger values, a reduction in crime, and, of course, more personal fulfillment for our citizens. This is an important debate, one of great significance for our Nation.”