The 1998 National Assessment for Educational Progress (NAEP) found 85% of minority 4th graders and 69% of all 4th grade students read below grade level. New Mexico's school drop-out rate is nearly 60%.

We must use the very best methods of teaching reading and math in our public schools. If students succeed in reading and math, they will desire more success and they will remain in school.

Young people want to work. Education and work must be linked by school to work training programs that partner schools and businesses. Federal funds are necessary to upgrade school buildings to accept the newest technologies available, to pay for good teachers and to develop and purchase challenging learning materials.