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

   For Release                                 Contact:  Kathryn Kahler                  August 22, 1995                                        (202)401-3026

Statement by U.S. Secretary of Education Richard W. Riley Regarding 27th Annual
Phi Delta Kappa/Gallup Poll
of the Public's Attitudes
Toward the Public Schools

This survey shows strong public support for higher academic standards and increased decision-making at the local level. President Clinton has worked since the beginning of his Administration to provide a more balanced, less intrusive federal role. The Goals 2000 Act passed by the Congress last year cuts red tape and provides flexible federal support for state and local efforts to raise standards and improve teaching and learning.

Eighty-six percent of survey respondents say they favor legislation enacted last year "to give the local public schools more say, in exchange for bringing students to higher level of academic achievement." That's a very clear message to continue support for Goals 2000. I hope Congress is listening.

Virtually all parents -- 98 percent -- want their child to go to college, and 86 percent of the public favor more student aid for college. Yet, Congress is considering cuts. They are clearly out of touch with the needs and aspirations of most Americans.

In fact, America's schools are improving, and as the new school year begins, I hope every American will go back to school -- to learn about the progress that is being made, to lend their skills and their time, to support students and teachers, and to help to fix the problems that remain. We must make our schools a place for families and the community.

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