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

   FOR RELEASE                             Contact: Ivette Rodriguez    October 18, 1995                                   (202) 401-0262

Statement by U.S. Secretary of Education Richard W. Riley Regarding Oct. 18 Congressional Hearing on H.R. 739, the "Declaration of Official Language Act" and H.R. 123/S. 356, the "Language of Government Act"

It would be sheer folly to deny millions of schoolchildren the opportunity to learn English -- at a time when the need is greatest. Unfortunately, these efforts to make English the "official" language and to eliminate programs that teach English are more about politics than improving education.

Repealing programs that teach English as a Second Language and bilingual education is wrong-headed. These programs have two key purposes: To make sure every child learns English; and to make sure that every child masters academic subjects, such as math and science, while continuing to learn English.

Obviously, English is our national language. New immigrants are clamoring to learn it as fast as they can. All over America, people are standing in lines and placing their names on waiting lists to take English and literacy classes.

Passing these bills is saying to children, and those who are struggling to learn English, that we don't care if they fall behind and fail.

The future costs to these children and adults -- and to our nation -- in terms of dropout rates and unemployment or underemployment -- is enormous.

Passing these bills is failing the future and our students.