Early this morning in Chicago, the American Federation of Teachers voted overwhelmingly to formally endorse Barack Obama for President. Shortly after the announcement, Barack addressed the 80th Convention of the AFT via satellite from San Diego (where he would later speak at National Council of La Raza's Annual Conference). in remarks, Barack said:
Real change is finally giving our kids everything they need to have a fighting chance in today's world. That begins with recognizing that the single most important factor in determining a child's achievement is not the color of their skin or where they come from; it's not who their parents are or how much money they have. It's who their teacher is. It's the paraprofessionals and support staff and all of you in this room. It's those who spend their own money on books and supplies, come early and stay late comparing lesson plans, who devote their lives to our next generation and serve as role models for the children who need one most because you believe that's what makes the extra difference. And it does.
In announcing their endorsement, AFT President Edward J. McElroy explained:
Sen. Obama believes, as we do, that our leaders have a responsibility to build the economy, not on the backs of poor and middle-class Americans, but for the benefit and well-being of all. His plans—to replace NCLB with education law that truly helps schools, instead of hurts them; to ensure all Americans have access to affordable, high-quality healthcare; and to bring home American troops as soon as possible—will help usher in a new era of progress and opportunity.
The AFT represents more than 1.4 million pre-K through 12th-grade teachers and school-related personnel, including federal, state and local government employees, nurses and healthcare workers, and early childhood educators.
Read the full remarks, as prepared for delivery . . . |
