For Republicans, 'No Child Left Behind' Was an Empty Promise

Pelosi: For Republicans, 'No Child Left Behind' Was an Empty Promise

Washington, D.C.-House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on the second anniversary of the No Child Left Behind Act:

"Two years ago, Democrats and Republicans worked together to enact the No Child Left Behind Act, charting a course for increased accountability and achievement in our nation's public schools. On a bipartisan basis, we agreed to ask schools to meet new requirements and to provide the resources necessary to meet them.

"For Democrats, that agreement represented a call to action and a strong commitment to students, parents, and teachers. And we have fought for the resources agreed to in the bill. For Republicans, that agreement was an empty promise. Again and again, President Bush and congressional Republicans have refused to honor their commitment-for 2004 they provided nearly $8 billion less for No Child Left Behind than they had promised just two years before.

"Reports indicate that the 2005 budget President Bush will announce next month will once again fall billions of dollars short. Republicans have found room in their budgets for trillions in tax cuts for the wealthy, while shortchanging our children's education and leaving millions of children behind.

"Children are our most valuable national resource. Providing quality education for them is a reflection of our values and the key to a strong and prosperous future. Democrats will continue to fight to increase educational opportunity for all Americans."