Speeches 
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May 6, 2019
Thank you for that introduction, and thank you for hosting me today.
Education is an issue I tend to think a lot about—and have for many years. I’ve followed your reporting and I appreciate all that you do as journalists.
The simple truth is: I never imagined I’d be a focus of your coverage. I don’t enjoy the publicity that comes with my position. I don’t love being up on stage or on any kind of platform. I’m an introvert.
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May 1, 2019
Thank you, Roger Hertog, for that kind introduction. And I'm very grateful for President Bush's kind words. I'm also thankful to be joined by my husband, Dick, daughter Andrea, son-in-law Michael, and my mom Elsa and her husband Ren.
Let me start by thanking the Manhattan Institute for this award. Although, I must admit I'm not sure what I've done to deserve such an honor.
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April 29, 2019
Welcome to the White House.
I'm grateful for the members of the Council of Chief State School Officers and their work on behalf of students. I enjoyed our conversation earlier this month and look forward to continuing to work with you on ways we can ensure every student in America has access to a great education.
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April 12, 2019
Thank you, Jon Graft, for that kind introduction and for your hospitality. I enjoyed visiting with you in Washington and continue to be impressed with the ways Butler Tech is rethinking educationamong them the new "Fifth Day Experience."
And students, I'm so pleased to join you for "Signing Day!" What an exciting and fitting way to recognize what you've accomplished. What you're doing here today is as important and notable as any other signing day.
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March 26, 2019
Chairwoman DeLauro, Ranking Member Cole, and Members of the Subcommittee:
Thank you for the opportunity to testify on the President’s fiscal year 2020 budget.
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February 28, 2019
Thank you, Walter Blanks, for that kind introduction. And thanks for sharing your story with us this morning. Stories like yours and Denisha Merriweather's touch my heart every time I hear them, and they keep me motivated every day. I know each of you has an inspiring story, too!
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January 28, 2019
Thank you, Frank Pugh, for that kind introduction.
Thank you all for everything you do to serve your communities. In your roles, nearly all of you as volunteer school board members, you are each in an important position to advocate for students and to listen to families.
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January 24, 2019
Thank you, Mayor Steve Benjamin, for that kind introduction.
It’s good to be back with some of you, and to meet so many more. I was active in local politics and policy for many years, so I know first-hand your leadership role is important to your communities and the people you serve.
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December 19, 2018
Thank you, Ted Mitchell, for that kind introduction and for hosting Diane Jones and me this morning.
I'm really looking forward to our conversation, but before we begin, I want to make one thing clear: I believe American higher education is the envy of the world. Thank you for the contributions you have each made to make it so. But in order to keep it that way, there are a few challenges to address.
Like all of education, higher education is due for a rethink.
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November 27, 2018
ATLANTA I'm pleased to be back at this conference with all of you who work so hard to educate, support, and serve students.
The role you play in their lives is essential. You are there for them as they take steps on their lifelong learning journeys. They might not always say it, but I will: your impact on students is significant. So, let me take this opportunity to thank you.