Americans understand the impact class size, discipline, and learning technology have on the quality of education. They also understand that unless we take steps now to modernize school facilities, classes will become more crowded, technology more outdated, and students less prepared to meet the challenges of the future. Some fourteen million students attend public schools needing extensive repair or replacement. That level of bipartisan support is essential to a successful legislative solution. Representatives of the two polling firms retained by NEA and AFT presented data pointing to a strong level of bipartisan support for a significant federal role in school modernization.
Education is viewed as the number one priority for next year's federal budget.
The poll was conducted January 5-10 of 1001 registered voters nationwide. This has created momentum to do more at the national level. We're pleased that President Clinton has made this issue a priority, and we look forward to working with him and Congress to see that serious steps are taken to upgrade our schools. Parents want smaller classes. Americans want better student outcomes and better discipline.