Alexander Lays Out Education Reform Agenda -- Feb. 17, 1997

Clinton Calls For Education Reform In State Of Union -- Feb. 4, 1997

Education Secretary Calls For Reform

ATLANTA (AllPolitics, Feb. 18) -- Education Secretary Richard Riley called today for training two million new teachers over the next 10 years and issued a stern call that if a bad school can't be improved, "shut it down."

"In America today, there are schools that should not be called schools at all," Riley said, in his annual state of education speech. "We need to stop making excuses and get on with the business of fixing our schools."

To an audience that included former President Jimmy Carter, whose presidency saw the creation of the federal Education Department, Riley touted many of President Bill Clinton's recent proposals including tax incentives for college and national educational standards.

Riley had a new proposal, as well, that eighth graders should routinely be taught algebra. And he said a strategy for recruiting two million new teachers would be worked out at a national forum scheduled for this spring.

"New teachers, like new lawyers and new doctors, should have to prove that they are qualified to meet high standards before getting a license," he said.

Riley also sounded themes of decentralization, saying state and local laws ought to be changed if they interfere with school improvement. According to an aide, Riley would consider overhauling union contracts with teachers.

"If a principal is slow to get the message, find strength in a new leader," Riley declared. "If teachers are burned out, counsel them to improve or leave the profession. If laws need to be changed, get on with it."