Eva M. Clayton: “Mr. Speaker, today is the last day of the National Education Summit that is being held in New York. Governors and…”

“Mr. Speaker, today is the last day of the National Education Summit that is being held in New York. Governors and business leaders from across the Nation recognize the urgent need to deal with America's education dilemma. Most Americans, too, recognize the need to improve our education system so that every child can have a chance to learn, develop, and to realize his or her full potential, and in doing so, to be able to make a contribution to society. Yet, many Americans understand, regrettably, that there are too many of our Nation's students who are not being prepared for success later in life, but are doomed to failure. They are in overcrowded classrooms, schools with poor curriculums, limited equipment, and low educational standards. Their teachers are underpaid and overworked. Too many of our students will drop out before completing high school if they are not challenged. Mr. Speaker, we are at an important crossroads in education. All levels of government, and the private sector, should be working together and investing more resources in education, not less resources. Again, most Americans are committed to investing more to improve our education system. Most Americans want to support our children and to ensure our Nation's future. And, if we understand the economics of education, we would know that quality education is a good investment.”