FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 28, 1999 CONTACT: Sharon J. Wells (202) 606-2402 sjwells@opm.gov TOP CLINTON ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL JANICE R. LACHANCE VISITS THREE MASSACHUSETTS SCHOOLS Washington, D.C.-Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Director Janice R. Lachance visited three schools in Massachusetts today to highlight the 1999 America Goes Back to School initiative. This years theme is Challenge Our Students and They Will Soar. Education is the cornerstone to finding the quality workforce the federal government will need, said Lachance to the many students, parents and community leaders that had gathered at each school for the events. Working together, we can help ensure that we have a workforce prepared for the challenges of the 21st century. The Director appeared at Brockton High School, Brockton, Norrback Avenue School in Worcester and Lowell High School in Lowell, discussing the importance of education and the strong commitment of parents and community support in the process. Lachance also talked about President Clintons commitment to invest in schools, increase the quality of learning by making schools safe and drug free, recruit quality teachers, modernize and build new schools, expand afterschool and summer programs, and instill higher educational standards in every class room. In an earlier letter to Director Lachance about the importance of the America Goes Back to School initiative, President Clinton said, I remain committed to increasing the participation of parents in their childrens education and to building strong community support for our schools, teachers, and students. In an effort to provide our elementary and secondary students with a worldclass education, Education Secretary Richard Riley has challenged every Administration official to help Americas students meet the challenges of the new school year. This initiative is a high priority for President Clinton and Secretary Riley. It is the fifth such annual event which encourages caring Americans to get involved in their communities by supporting students and improving local schools. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management is the human resources agency of the federal government. The Directors speeches can be read at OPMs web site at http://www.opm.gov. End

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