Put education in election spotlight

Americans have been captivated by the drama, excitement, and twists and turns of the presidential race. The major candidates have been drawing huge crowds. More people than ever are watching the televised debates. Everyone agrees this is a landmark election. Voters are fired up.

And yet, with the eyes of the world upon them, we’ve heard hardly a word from the major candidates about an issue critical to the future success of our country and our children — education. Health care, the war in Iraq and the economy have been debated extensively, and while they are vitally important, so is education.

While the major candidates have relatively detailed education platforms on their Web sites, they are not speaking about them publicly or making them a priority of their campaigns. What we do hear from them on education in the high-profile forums is disappointing, particularly their desire to junk No Child Left Behind, the 2002 law that holds schools more accountable and has helped raise reading and math scores.

The theme of this election has been bold change, and where could we use bold change more than in our K-12 school systems? You’re probably familiar with the statistics: one-third of high school students do not graduate, about one-half for minorities. Of those who do graduate, many are not being equipped with the skills and knowledge they’ll need to succeed. Many are unable to think critically, solve basic problems or follow directions.

If we don’t bring urgent change to our K-12 system, how will we compete with India and China? Who will fill the high-tech jobs of the 21st-century knowledge economy, especially as baby boomers begin to retire? What will happen to the dreams and potential of our kids?

Fortunately, the silence of our presidential candidates on education is sharply contrasted by substantial action at the state and local level. Officials like Chancellor of the D.C. Public School System Michelle Rhee and Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen are rejecting a system that fails students, parents and taxpayers. They are bringing innovation, accountability and competition to schools with outstanding results.

The presidential candidates need to go on record opposing the status quo in education. They need to commit to providing a federal framework that will give real reformers political cover. They need to commit to the strengthening and continuation of No Child Left Behind. They need to stand up to the teachers unions when they stand in the way of genuine reforms and accountability. They need to be the agents of change they say they are.

Way back in June, the Education Writers Association asked all the major presidential candidates from both parties to come to the U.S. Chamber to discuss their education plans. Not a single acceptance. We’re still waiting.

In the meantime, we will do everything within our power to ensure that the candidates are addressing this key issue from now until November, and beyond.

Thomas J. Donohue is president and chief executive officer of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. For more information on the chamber, go online to www.uschamber.com.