Bennet: President's "Blueprint for Reform"? Will Help Improve Outcomes for Our Kids, Ensure Country's Competitiveness in New Economy

President's Proposed Overhaul of the Public Education System is a Major Step Forward to Prepare Our Kids For the Future

Washington, DC - Michael Bennet, U.S. Senator for Colorado and former superintendent of Denver Public Schools, released the following statement after President Obama unveiled his "Blueprint for Reform" with respect to the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA):

"As a former school superintendent, I know we can do better when it comes to public education. Past attempts to reform our public schools, though well-intentioned, have fundamentally failed to bring about the kind of change we need to prepare our kids for the new economy. It's time to rewrite the book when it comes to public education in this country. We need a new approach that promotes proven reforms, articulates clear goals for student achievement and provides those closest to our kids with the flexibility and support they need to help our kids get ahead.

"To reach these goals, we must provide our teachers with the resources and support they need to do their jobs and drive student achievement.

"If we are going to remain competitive in the global economy, we must fundamentally change public education in this country. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to bring about the kind of reforms we need to prepare our kids, and our economy, to succeed in the years ahead."

Last week, several Senate Democrats joined a Bennet-led effort urging President Obama to make public education reform an "urgent priority" for the nation. For more information on that effort, please click here.