The unanimous and swift action of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee reflects strong bipartisan support for a new approach to public education. Working with the Bush Administration, the members of the committee have made education their priority. We appreciate their work as our partners in the effort to leave no child behind.

The committeeís action today is an important first step, and we look forward to continuing to work with Members of Congress to increase consolidation of federal programs in order to create greater flexibility for those who make educational decisions for our children. We also hope to expand options for parents whose children are trapped in persistently failing schools.

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