Following is a statement by U.S. Secretary of Education Rod Paige on the resignation of Robert H. Pasternack, effective Jan. 2, as assistant secretary for special education and rehabilitative services -- a post he has held since August 2001.

"I want to thank Bob for his service to the department and commend him for his work to improve the lives of America's 6.5 million children and youth with disabilities. 'No child left behind' means every child -- and that certainly includes students with disabilities. Bob has been an effective advocate on their behalf, and we wish him well."

In a letter to the president, Pasternack said he feels he "can continue to serve children with disabilities and their families in the private sector while at the same time trying my best to achieve the educational goals that you have set for our country."

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