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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 25, 1999

Statement

The Nation's Educators Mourn the Loss of U.S. Senator Chafee

"He has left a proud legacy for his state and the nation."

Washington, D.C. -- "The National Education Association (NEA) expresses deep sadness at the loss Sunday of a true friend of public education, U.S. Senator John H. Chafee," said NEA President Bob Chase. "We join the Senator's family and the people of Rhode Island in recognizing the profound loss in his death. His staunchly principled positions to put children and education ahead of politics will be remembered forever."

During his terms as governor, state representative, and U.S. Senator, Chafee championed bipartisan initiatives to expand health insurance for children and families and improve services for the disabled. As a U.S. Senator, Chafee supported sensible gun control efforts to ensure student safety, was an ardent civil rights advocate, and was a strong opponent of private school vouchers, believing that all children have a right to quality public education.

"His fierce commitment to seeking bipartisan solutions to problems can be an inspiration to all of us," said Chase. "He has left a proud legacy for his state and the nation. The nation's educators will miss his leadership, wisdom, and compassion. We offer our deepest sympathies to his family and friends."

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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.