Political Quotes

“last week Bob Dole gave an education speech in Minneapolis during which he said that public schools are being driven into the ground by bureaucrats and teachers. First of all, if Bob Dole wants to know what is going on in public schools he ought to visit a few--and talk to parents and teachers who are struggling to help students become knowledgeable and productive citizens in tomorrow's world. I would like to suggest that he visit Pontiac Central High School where this year a team of corporate engineers, students, and teachers designed and built an innovative robot that won first place in a nationwide competition of 73 teams. If Bob Dole were to visit a school like Pontiac Central High he might not see just problems, he might see what the teachers and the scientific and engineering community of Pontiac see--children with promise. Madam Speaker, Mr. Dole should use his campaign to encourage public schools as they strive for excellence and innovation. He should join with the leaders of business and industry who are calling for a renewed commitment to public schools. Above all, he should not squander that opportunity by condemning the legacy of public education and demonizing those people who commit themselves to educating children in a pluralistic society--our Nation's classroom teachers.”