A r c h i v e d  I n f o r m a t i o n

   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                    Contact:  Kathryn Kahler       March 17, 1994                                     (202) 401-3026    

STATEMENT BY SECRETARY OF EDUCATION RICHARD W. RILEY

REGARDING THE COMPLETION OF THE HOUSE-SENATE CONFERENCE COMMITTEE ON THE GOALS 2000: EDUCATE AMERICA ACT

The successful completion of the House-Senate Conference on President Clinton's Goals 2000 legislation is the latest strong indication that a broad consensus has developed around the need for higher standards, safer schools, improved teaching, community-based reform, and increased parental involvement in the education of America's children.

The Conference Committee report assures us that state and local communities will receive the support they need to meet the voluntary National Education Goals embodied in the Goals 2000: Educate America Act. I have every expectation that both the House and Senate will vote for final passage before the congressional Easter adjournment on March 25.

Final passage of the Goals 2000 legislation moves us one step closer to the day when we can assure every parent in America that their children are going to safe schools and receiving an education that is up to world-class standards.

I am particularly gratified that the Conference Committee strongly supports the President's Safe Schools Act which will, for the first time, target federal assistance to help local school districts end the increasing wave of violence in and around our nation's schools. Additionally, the Goals 2000 legislation reauthorizes the Office of Educational Research and Improvement.

I look forward to final passage of the President's Goals 2000 legislation and congratulate the many members of the Conference for their diligence and speedy action on this important piece of legislation.

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