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

   FOR RELEASE                                 Contact:  Diane Jones    July 31, 1995                                      (202) 401-3725

Riley Applauds "Strong Families, Strong Schools" Winners; Efforts in Indiana, Texas Honored

U.S. Secretary of Education Richard W. Riley today congratulated the parents, students, teachers and administrators at Katy Elementary School in Katy, Texas, and Sarah Scott Middle School in Terre Haute, Ind., for their successful family involvement efforts.

The schools were selected as winners of the "Strong Families, Strong Schools" competition sponsored by Scholastic, Inc., Apple Computer, Inc., and the National Education Goals Panel.

"You have demonstrated to communities across the nation that family involvement in children's learning must be seen as key to a successful education program," Riley said. "I wholeheartedly support efforts such as yours, and encourage you to continue the good work you are doing. You are an example for all Americans to roll up their sleeves and get involved in supporting education at the local level."

Riley said the efforts directly support Goal 8 of the National Education Goals: "Every school will promote partnerships that increase parental involvement and participation in promoting the social, emotional and academic growth of children."

Studies show that family and community support for education results in greater student achievement and schools that are safer.

The Family Involvement Partnership for Learning, a coalition of more than 140 family, community, religious, business and education organizations, encourages adults to work closely with their local schools to improve education and help all students learn to high standards. The U.S Department of Education, Scholastic, Inc. and the National Education Goals Panel are members of the Partnership.

For more information on the partnership, call (1) 800-USA- LEARN.