Political Quotes

“I rise today to express my support of the Grassley amendment. I am an original cosponsor of this important amendment because I feel strongly that the rights of parents should not be overlooked or taken for granted by schools. Many, many concerned parents have called me to express their concern about educational philosophies that focus more on attitudes, feelings, and values than academics. I have heard of examples of extreme forms of this philosophy where students are rated on their sense of self, appreciation of change, and the like instead of receiving letter grades on the 3R's. And I am concerned, like these parents are, to hear that some school systems have been introducing values clarification surveys into the classroom. With some of these surveys, children are being asked questions about their home life and personal values. These parents believe, as I do, that the teaching of values belongs in the home, and that the teaching of academics belongs to schools. This amendment will prohibit the use of Goals 2000 funds for values-- related activities without parental notification, consent, and access to the relevant information. Parents have the right to know that their children will be taking part in surveys or activities that may run counter to their beliefs or values. I also believe that parents have the right to remove their children from participating if they choose to. I urge my colleagues' support for this amendment.”