Political Quotes

“I support the pending nomination of Mr. Arne Duncan to be Secretary of Education. I had the opportunity to meet with Mr. Duncan earlier this month, although I have been aware of his work in Chicago for a number of years. What struck me the most is his focus on doing what is best for the children and his belief that every child can succeed regardless of their background. During his confirmation hearing in the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions--HELP--Committee, Mr. Duncan was asked about what he had accomplished in Chicago as the CEO of the Chicago Public Schools. His support for charter schools, public school choice, performance pay for teachers and school leaders was highlighted at the hearing. He described how he had closed low-performing schools in Chicago because they were not providing children the education they needed. He also spoke of the important role teachers have and how we need not only to attract but retain quality teachers. He believes that children have one chance to get a good education, and as adults we need to make sure they have that opportunity to learn and achieve.”