But math scores have risen, which Gore noted, and praised. The same national tests show that Texas students overall are in the middle of the pack, but minority students in that state did better than minorities nationally. Bush is pointing to his state's record as he pushes his ideas for education nationwide. President Clinton sought to expand the federal role, proposing that more teachers be hired, that all schools have heat, hot water and safe roofs, and that everyone gets computer time. Republicans in Congress, too, have increased spending, especially for special education, and no longer push for closing the Education Department.
Some advocates believe all that attention has laid the groundwork for the next administration.
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