    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 51 (Monday, December 24, 2001)]
    [Page 1802]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Statement on Congressional Action on Education Reform Legislation

    December 18, 2001

        I commend Members of Congress for acting boldly and in an
    overwhelmingly bipartisan way to help make sure no child in America is
    left behind. These historic reforms will improve our public schools by
    creating an environment where every child can learn through real
    accountability, unprecedented flexibility for States and school
    districts, greater local control, more options for parents, and more
    funding for what works.
        Many share in the credit for making these reforms a reality. I look
    forward to standing side by side with the bipartisan leadership,
    Congressman Boehner, Senator Kennedy, Senator Gregg, and Congressman
    Miller, early next year and signing these important reforms into law.
        By putting aside partisan differences and working to find common
    ground, we can get things done so that all our children have the
    opportunity for a better and brighter future.