[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 20 (Wednesday, March 4, 1998)]
[House]
[Page H759]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                DEMOCRATS WANT TO IMPROVE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

  (Mr. PALLONE asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, the Democratic leadership in the House and 
Senate are unveiling the details of legislation today to improve 
America's public schools. Our plans are in marked contrast to the 
Republican leadership that continues to stress tuition vouchers and 
other efforts that will provide less funding for public schools. Last 
session the Republicans went so far as to advocate abolishing the 
Department of Education.
  Democrats want to give America's towns and cities the ability to 
reduce class size through hiring an additional 100,000 new qualified 
teachers. Reducing class size is the best way to raise student 
achievement, and smaller classes also provide for better discipline.
  Democrats also want to address the need for renovations to school 
buildings and new construction. We will provide tax incentives to help 
States and local districts accelerate the pace of new construction and 
renovation.
  Mr. Speaker, Republicans do not believe in public education. The 
Democrats, on the other hand, want the Federal Government to improve 
America's public schools.




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