U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings today released the following statement upon the death Sunday night in New York of Sandra Feldman, former president of the American Federation of Teachers.

"Along with many others throughout the educational community, I was saddened to learn of Sandy Feldman's passing earlier today. Sandy was a great lady and a great leader who devoted her entire career to brightening the future for American children. Following in the legacy of Albert Shanker, Sandy always put students' needs first. She championed groundbreaking educational reforms to help level the playing field for our country's neediest children and to improve professional development for teachers.

"I offer my heartfelt sympathy to her family, friends and colleagues. Sandy's memory will continue to inspire all those working to close the achievement gap and improve the lives of students throughout our nation."

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