[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 161 (Tuesday, November 27, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S12053]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING MONTANA'S STUDENTS

 Mr. BAUCUS. Madam President, I rise today to congratulate 
science students and science educators in my home State of Montana.
  Last week, newly released scores from the 2000 National Assessment of 
Educational Progress, NAEP, often referred to as ``Our Nation's Report 
Card,'' placed Montana's eighth grade science students atop the Nation. 
Our fourth grade students earned the 2nd highest score among States.
  These scores reflect the high quality science education that 
Montana's teachers provide. I am proud of the dedication and hard work 
of Montana's teachers and students; in our technologically-advanced, 
information-rich society, an understanding of scientific thought and an 
ability to use scientific methods to make new discoveries will be 
critical to improving our quality of life.
  We often lament our public education system and the challenges it 
faces. There can be no doubt that we can and must meet these 
challenges. The scores that I commend today, however, demonstrate two 
things. First, that dedicated, hard-working teachers are critical to 
the success of the education we provide. Second, that our public 
schools deliver a quality education, despite the financial challenges 
they face.
  These scores also underscore the importance of investing in our 
education system. In my State of Montana, teachers have demonstrated 
again and again their teaching skills, their commitment to delivering a 
solid education, and their ability to make creative improvements in 
their schools and classrooms, all this, despite low wages and ever-
increasing responsibilities. Unfortunately, this level of commitment 
will not persevere if these trends continue.
  We are at a crossroads at the Federal level with respect to education 
policy and financial support. We know that a quality education is the 
key to future success as individuals and as a nation. We need to make a 
commitment to our students that the education they receive will provide 
them with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful.
  Let's match the commitment that Montana's teachers and students have 
made to science education excellence with a commitment from the Federal 
level to provide the resources and support that they need.

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