[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000, Book II)]
[July 6, 2000]
[Page 1391]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement on the Release of School Accountability Funds
July 6, 2000

    I am pleased that the Education Department announced today the 
release of the first $100 million from the Title I School Accountability 
Fund to help States and school districts turn around low-performing 
schools. Over the last 7 years we have followed a commonsense reform 
strategy: invest more in our schools and demand more in return. The 
funds announced today will support local communities in 31 States and 
the District of Columbia implement strategies that work to turn around 
their worst performing schools by implementing a tougher curriculum, 
helping teachers get the skills and training they need, and, if 
necessary, closing down a failing school and reopening it under new 
leadership or as a public charter school.
    Today I call on Congress again to enact my budget proposal, which 
would double the accountability fund to $250 million; fulfill our 
commitment to hire 100,000 high-quality teachers to reduce class size in 
the early grades; build and modernize public schools; and ensure after-
school help for every child in a failing school. I also urge Congress to 
pass my education accountability act, which will enhance the efforts of 
States, districts, and schools to ensure all of America's children can 
achieve high standards by focusing on results.

Note: The statement referred to the Improving America's Schools Act of 
1994 (Title I) (Public Law 103-382), which amended the Elementary and 
Secondary Education Act of 1965 (Public Law 89-10).