Pat Ryan: “I thank Chairman Goodling and my colleagues Mr. Castle and Mr. Roemer for their leadership on this important issue. Mr.…”

“I thank Chairman Goodling and my colleagues Mr. Castle and Mr. Roemer for their leadership on this important issue. Mr. Chairman, by and large the education system in my home State of Wisconsin is excellent. In fact, our State ranks as one of the best in the Nation. Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson and our State legislature have done a wonderful job of working with parents, teachers and school board members. Students are learning in Wisconsin. But more can be done; we can grant our teachers the opportunity and the freedom to use innovative approaches to raise student achievement. Expanding the Ed-Flex program is a great step for Wisconsin in its efforts to develop an education system focused upon high standards for all students, flexibility, and strong accountability for results. Mr. Chairman, as I've talked with parents, school board members, teachers and superintendents back in my district, I've asked them what can Congress do to make their jobs easier. Time and time again they've told me, ``Cut the red tape. Give us the freedom to do what we know works best.''”