[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 16]
[House]
[Page 21958]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



           SUPPORT NATIONAL JUNIOR COLLEGE FOR DEAF AND BLIND

  (Mr. RILEY asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. RILEY. Mr. Speaker, the President has stated his goal: Leave no 
child behind. He did not say leave no child behind that can hear or 
see, he said leave no child behind, and that includes the thousands of 
students striving to earn a college degree who are deaf or blind or 
sensory impaired.
  When we talk about improving education, we have got to improve it 
across the board. We have to give it to every student. We have to give 
them an opportunity to learn regardless of their disabilities. Students 
without these challenges have the option of attending a junior college 
to ease them into the college environment. No such option exists for 
these deaf and blind students.
  Today, I am introducing legislation that supports these students with 
the establishment of the first National Junior College for the Deaf and 
Blind in conjunction with the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind.
  Mr. Speaker, let us level the playing field. Give these students 
trained professionals, a residential facility, and a means for modern-
day distance learning. We can help to provide that all-important 2-year 
college stepping stone to the 4-year collegiate level and ensure 
valuable preparation for successful employment.
  I ask all of my colleagues to support the first National Junior 
College for the Deaf and Blind.

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