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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 1, 1999

Statement

NEA President Bob Chase Praises Work on Education Summit

Palisades, N.Y. -- Bob Chase, president of the nearly 2.5 million-member National Education Association (NEA), issued the following statement in response to the summit on education convened by many of the nation's governors and business leaders.

"The education standards movement is alive and well -- and healthier after this summit. I am pleased that participants recognized that we can't just set high standards without giving teachers the resources to help children reach them. And we realize that smaller classes, quality teachers, and modern schools are all a part of the formula for helping all students meet high standards.

"It takes involved parents, engaged communities, and responsible elected officials to build a world class educational system.

"The members of the NEA will do our part. And we will continue our partnerships with governors, legislators, parents, and others to ensure quality programs in America's public schools. We will continue to work to make sure every student gets what he or she needs to be successful."

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The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representing more than 2.7 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support personnel, school administrators, retired educators, and students preparing to become teachers.