    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1999, Book I)]
    [February 25, 1999]
    [Page 264]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Radio Remarks on the Kennedy-Murray Amendment to Proposed Education
    Flexibility Partnership Legislation
    February 25, 1999

        This year, we have a remarkable opportunity to work together across
    party lines to bring true progress to America's public schools. I
    welcome the idea of greater flexibility for States and school districts,
    and I urge the Senate to pass the so-called ed-flex legislation, because
    it provides for greater flexibility and greater accountability. But we
    must do more to give our children a world-class education. That's why I
    also strongly support the amendment to the legislation proposed by
    Senators Kennedy and Murray to continue the national commitment we began last year:
    to hire 100,000 new teachers and to reduce class size all across
    America. Studies confirm what every parent already knows: smaller
    classes make a big difference, from improved test scores to improved
    discipline. The Senate should pass the Kennedy-Murray amendment and give
    our Nation's children the individual attention they deserve in the
    classroom and the better future only a good education can bring.

    Note: The President's remarks were recorded at approximately 2 p.m. in
    the Tucson Convention Center in Tucson, AZ, for later broadcast. These
    remarks were also made available on the White House Press Office Radio
    Actuality Line.