Remarks of Secretary Paige, East Literature Magnet School, Nashville, TN
FOR RELEASE:
September 17, 2002
Thank you, Dr. Garcia for that introduction. It's an honor to be here.
Mr. President, Tennessee must feel like familiar territory to you.
I mean, they've got a college called UT. They've got lots of country music. And they've even got the Houston Oilers.
Every day in many ways, I am reminded what an honor it is to serve this President.
He is a strong and passionate voice for freedom. And Mr. President, our prayers are with you in your courageous fight against terrorism.
We are grateful in this time of uncertainty to have you in the Oval Office—leading with a heart that is both wise and just.
We are also grateful that not even war can break your focus on the things that matter back here at home:
- creating jobs;
- expanding opportunities to save and invest and own a piece of the American dream;
- and especially, improving America's schools, so every child learns and no child is left behind.
This is not simply reform; it's a revolution.
And years from now, people are going to look back on the compassionate vision of this President and say, That was the tipping point.
That's when they raised the bar and student achievement soared.
That's when leadership triumphed over politics and no child was left behind.
That's when all Americans—no matter the color of their skin or the accent of their speech—finally—finally—got a fair shot at achieving their dreams.
Please welcome the President of the United States.
Back to Top
Return to Speeches
| 
Official U.S. Department of Education web site.