Lynn C. Woolsey: “I rise also to support this conference report. And I say, good job, gentlemen. It was hard but they made it happen. I…”

“I rise also to support this conference report. And I say, good job, gentlemen. It was hard but they made it happen. I would prefer a bill, however, that includes more funding for all that we are asking of our schools and of our teachers. We have made quite a list of accomplishments. We need to fund them so they can have the help they need. I particularly regret that we are not fully funding our Federal share of special education. There is not a school district in this Nation that is not having trouble meeting those costs. I am pleased, however, that the bill keeps funding for hate crime prevention intact. It is so important because as a result of the 11th of September, there has been a dramatic increase in hate crimes, particularly crimes directed at innocent people and innocent children, including school children. Now, more than ever, because we have this in the bill, we will be able to teach our children constructive ways to express their feelings. Nothing matters more to the future of this country than the education of our children. They are the workers, the soldiers, the diplomats, and voters of tomorrow. Congratulations, gentlemen.”