Statement by Antonia Cortese,
Executive Vice President of the American Federation of Teachers,
on the 2005 NAEP Trial Urban District Assessment Results for Science

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The NAEP results released today tell us there is much more work to be done in our nation's urban schools. Laws like NCLB are narrowing the educational curriculum to the point that crucial subjects are in danger of being left behind. The American Federation of Teachers is focused on addressing those challenges and we are ready to lead the way.

Our schools in urban districts educate a diverse population of students, many of whom are disadvantaged.  However, the continued improvement of NAEP reading scores has shown that given the right supports, students in urban districts do succeed.

We know from research and experience what works—research-based programs, more instructional time, ongoing support and funding equal to the challenges our schools face.  It is time we turn to what really makes a difference in education—highly qualified teachers, smaller class size and testing that is aligned with strong standards and curricula.

Urban communities face daunting challenges.  All of our students should be given the chance to live up to their potential.  The hard-working educators who serve these children remain committed to that goal.  As a nation, we have an opportunity to build on our public schools' accomplishments thus far.  We should not squander that opportunity.

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