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U.S. Secretary of Education Rod Paige today issued the following statement congratulating Juliette Rizzo, a Department of Education employee, on being crowned Ms. Wheelchair America. Ms. Rizzo, who works in the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS), competed with contestants from 25 other states and the District of Columbia for the right to represent the achievements of women with disabilities.

"We have always known that Juliette was a star. She is an articulate and passionate advocate for people with disabilities, and I know that she will also represent the Department and the entire federal workforce well as she travels the nation in her role as Ms. Wheelchair America. President Bush and I both understand the importance of ensuring that all children receive a quality education. That is why No Child Left Behind makes sure that all children in our schools—regardless of their skin color, spoken accent, street address or disability—receive the best education possible. Juliette is a fine example for us all, and we couldn't be prouder to call her our own."

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