Statement by Randi Weingarten, President, American Federation of Teachers:
‘Democratic Party’s Platform is Good for Students, Educators and Workers’

DENVER—The Democratic platform is good for students, educators and workers. The platform, along with Sen. Barack Obama’s bold vision, will help restore accountability to the White House, give new promises to our children and improve the lives of workers across America.

The platform parallels Obama’s desire for the right kind of change—change that the AFT fights to make a reality every day. All Americans have a right to a good education; high-quality, affordable healthcare; and the opportunity to work at a family-supporting job. This platform calls for change wherever Americans are denied these rights.

To improve education, Obama knows we will need broad support to create environments, both inside and outside our schools, that will allow every child to reach his or her full potential. He understands that, in order to flourish, students must have access to well-prepared and well-supported teachers, a rich and broad curriculum, and safe and welcoming schools.

We’re pleased that the platform includes a substantive skills education initiative to prepare workers for today’s jobs as well as the jobs of tomorrow. Education training and support should be available to all Americans.

The Democratic platform is a catalyst for positive change. It is a statement of principles and priorities that will put our country back on course and ensure that we are headed in the right direction.

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