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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 31, 1999

Statement of Bob Chase, President, National Education Association On Progress in SAT Scores

The release of The 1999 SAT scores for college-bound high school students is More evidence that America public schools are making progress in efforts to maintain standards. results a decade emphasis on standards -- with taking rigorous courses and states raising expectations have paid off. better prepared college many ways.

When one considers that the standard for SAT scores was set in 1941, based on the results of 10,000 college-bound students, it is quite remarkable that 2 million students taking the test today perform about as well. It is particularly impressive when you take into account the economic and social diversity of students attending America's public schools.

We will not declare victory yet, and we will never stop working for better opportunity for students. This is compelling evidence that public schools can do better when we have the commitment, the will, and the resources to improve.