Now I want to briefly discuss some other things we can do to improve education in the future. Second , we must continue to raise standards in the right way. The key is to emphasize steady improvement, not overnight success. Third , we must reduce class size in the early grades and focus like a laser beam on reading. Fourth , let's end the 'reading wars' between phonics and whole language.
Research shows that a combination of the two is the best way to go.
Fifth , the arts must become a part of every student's basic education. A good music or art teacher is the best drop-out prevention program any school can have. Sixth , we cannot get good teachers on the cheap. Seventh , we must put a certified teacher into every classroom. Eighth , we need more quality after-school programs.