AFT President Edward J. McElroy
2004 Democratic National Convention
Boston, MA - July 26, 2004

As never before, quality education is imperative in order to build a stronger America – and that’s why we must elect John Kerry as our next President.

We know that America’s best public schools are the best schools in the world – but too many of our children attend schools that need help.

That means all schools and all students must have the support they need, wherever they live, whatever their background.

Four years ago, education was the issue – on editorial pages, in candidate debates, and across breakfast tables.

And while Americans still put education high on their list of concerns today, many other issues are crowding in – the weak economy, our national security, the healthcare crisis.

These are all important.

But solving these problems depends on having well-educated Americans who can contribute.

John Kerry and John Edwards know that we must start with quality early childhood programs. All children must come to school prepared and eager to learn.

John Kerry and John Edwards know that every classroom must have a great teacher.

Every student must get extra help as needed.

And later in life, we must have quality, widely-available job training for lifelong opportunities in our changing economy.

John Kerry and John Edwards will provide health care for every American child – especially the nine million children who lack health insurance.

And together, together we will make higher education more affordable, so that more Americans can fulfill their dream of attending or sending their children to college.

Teachers, paraprofessionals and many other dedicated personnel make public schools work for our children.

We must make sure that policies affecting schools and children are not enacted without first listening to those closest to the classroom.

Teachers, and other educators, know that John Kerry and John Edwards are listening.

In John Kerry and John Edwards, we have a team who know that education really is a top priority – that affordable health care is achievable – and that America’s system of early education through higher education is second to none in this world.

Whatever we do for our children, to make them smarter, healthier, happier… will come back many times over to benefit our communities and our country.

That’s why I – and we -- stand ready to elect John Kerry and John Edwards the next President and Vice President of the United States.