BOSTON - Senator John Kerry released the following statement on the 2007 National Assessment of Education Progress results, which were announced by Governor Patrick earlier today.

 
“Massachusetts students continue to rank among the best in the nation, which is a tribute to our teachers, parents, administrators and our students themselves.

 
“We should take pride in these latest results, but we must also realize that there is still a lot of work to be done. MCAS results released earlier this month found evidence of widespread disparities. Too many minority students and those with limited English proficiency have been left outside these recent gains. We cannot have an education system that is separate and unequal.

 
“We must also make certain that our schools have everything they need from manageable class sizes, modern technology, and ongoing professional development for our teachers. These critical resources will keep education in Massachusetts among the best of the best.

 
“I thank Governor Patrick for his leadership in continuing to put our children first and for working to close the achievement gap. His commitment to a good education starting at an early age is a model every single child in our state will benefit from.”

 
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