    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2007, Book II)]
    [September 25, 2007]
    [Pages 1239-1240]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the National Assessment of Educational Progress
    September 25, 2007

        Earlier today the 2007 Nation's Report Card, also known as the
    National Assessment of Educational Progress, was released. The news is
    outstanding. Eighth graders achieved their highest scores ever in math,
    while fourth graders set records in both reading and math. African
    American and Hispanic students posted alltime highs in a number of
    categories, which represents progress toward closing the achievement
    gap.
        These scores confirm that No Child Left Behind is working and
    producing positive results for students across the country. Since No
    Child Left Behind became law in 2002, the States have been setting
    standards and holding schools accountable for ensuring that every child
    can read and do math at grade level. We are successfully challenging the
    soft bigotry of low expectations and continuing to make significant
    progress in reforming our schools.
        As we commemorate the integration 50 years ago of Central High
    School in Little Rock, Arkansas, we are reminded of the sacrifices
    students and their families have made in pursuit of a better education.
    Today's results demonstrate America's progress in making their dreams a
    reality, but we have more work to do. Now is not the time to turn back
    the clock on educational accountability and real options for parents,
    which No Child Left Behind provides.
        The successes detailed in the Nation's Report Card highlight the
    importance of reauthorizing No Child Left Behind. I have proposed a
    number of ways to improve the law, by increasing flexibility, helping
    struggling schools, and empowering parents with more choices. I look
    forward to continuing to work with lawmakers of both parties to
    strengthen this important law.

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