[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 19 (Monday, May 14, 2001)]
[Page 726]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on House of Representatives Action on Education Reform 
Legislation

May 9, 2001

    I commend members of the House Education and Workforce Committee for 
taking the first step toward reforming America's education system and 
making sure no child is left behind. This legislation includes 
monumental reforms that promote real accountability, annual testing, and 
funding flexibility. Parents need to know if their children are making 
progress, and this legislation meets that priority. I am also pleased 
that this bill gives unprecedented freedom and flexibility to States and 
local school districts to determine the best way to spend their Federal 
education dollars.
    I urge Members of Congress to continue building upon our efforts to 
expand parental options. I will support amendments on the House floor 
that increase parental options and involvement.
    I applaud Chairman John Boehner and Ranking Minority Member George 
Miller for working in a bipartisan way to move this important piece of 
legislation forward.