I am proud and honored to be named the American Association of School Administrators' Superintendent of the Year. This organization and its members stand at ground zero in the battle to improve America's public schools. Serving a school district as its superintendent requires dedication and hard work, and the role of superintendents in making our public schools excellent should not be underestimated.

I am humbled to be selected from among so many dedicated and talented superintendents, and share the distinction with the administrators, teachers and school board who have devoted themselves to the success of the Houston Independent School District and its students.

Although I no longer serve as superintendent, I look forward to working with my colleagues to bring President Bush's education plan to life in America's schools. President Bush and I are both passionate advocates for America's public schools. I will be working now, in my role as Secretary of Education, to make sure that our public schools rise to the level where no child is left behind.