This letter to the editor by Assistant Secretary Ray Simon appeared in Portsmouth Herald News on February 6, 2005.

To the Editor: I read with interest Kathleen Bailey's analysis of the Bush administration's proposals to improve high school education ('Superintendents support newest No Child initiative, but worry about money, Jan. 23, 2005). She's right—there is considerable support for this initiative within the education community because it makes education more successful, rigorous, equitable and inclusive.

Under the proposal, the last year of high school will feature more educational opportunities and demands, including community college and Advanced Placement courses. Scores in reading, mathematics and science should significantly improve under the initiative. And teachers will be better trained, especially those working in low-income areas.

These changes are needed immediately: Every high school student will have to be well educated to compete in a global marketplace. Even technological training for automobile repair now requires considerable skills in reading and mathematics.

The president's funding requests are appropriate for these proposed programs and we are committed to ensuring elementary school improvements under No Child Left Behind and other programs remain vibrant. The high school initiative builds on that success; it doesn't supersede or supplant it.

This is a historic change in policy, culture and expectations. Our students will learn more, become better prepared for college and the workplace, and expand their intellectual horizons.

Ray Simon
Assistant Secretary of Elementary and Secondary Education
U.S. Department of Education