Louise Slaughter: “Mr. Speaker, this is a measure that many of us have been worried might not ever see the light of day. As the measure…”

“Mr. Speaker, this is a measure that many of us have been worried might not ever see the light of day. As the measure moved through the House, the thoughtful and carefully crafted compromise almost collapsed as extreme measures such as vouchers and block grants became attached. I am pleased to report cooler heads have prevailed in conference. What has emerged is one of the most critical pieces of one of the most important pieces of domestic policy to emerge from the Congress this year. This education bill has the potential to truly make a difference in the lives of our children. Congress, for the first time, has tackled the inexcusable achievement gap between rich and poor students and minority and nonminority students that has plagued our educational system for decades. In addition, for the first time in history we set as Federal law that teachers must be qualified in their subject area within four years. That is a very important step. Moreover, this measure provides funding adequate enough to match our rhetoric. Over $27 billion has been authorized in fiscal year 2002 for Federal elementary and secondary education programs. This is $3.5 billion more than the amount authorized by the House and is well needed. For the first time, Congress is giving teachers the resources for training, support and mentoring that they need to reach the goals.”