Vice President Al Gore's Plans for Education in America

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THANKS to the hard work of the American people, the fiscal discipline of the government, and the wise investments we have made as a country, we are beginning the 21st century from a position of unprecedented prosperity. With that prosperity comes unprecedented opportunity and significant responsibility. One of the most important responsibilities that we face is that of educating our people. I believe that education must remain a state and local responsibility, with those closest to our children making daily decisions, but I also know that education must be a national priority, with bold national leadership and ample national investment.

Over the last eight years, the Clinton/Gore Administration has fought to ensure that every American has access to the resources that he or she needs to prepare for success in the 21st century. As President, I would continue my commitment to this mission by fighting for an education agenda that would enable all Americans to reach their full potential, through a reasonable balance of investment in education and accountability from educators and students.

Over the next 10 years, I would create an Education Reform Trust Fund. This fund would set aside resources to bring revolutionary improvements to our public schools, because ensuring all children the education they need to succeed should not be a year-to-year decision. The trust fund would finance programs that are key to student achievement and the centerpieces of my …