Speeches

Rigor, Relevance, and the Future of Career and Technical Education

We're at a time when Americans everywhere are asking some very tough questions about education. But it all comes down to one: What will it take to dramatically improve public education in America?

Math Teachers: The Nation Builders of the 21st Century

I want to start by thanking you. All of you here today have dedicated your lives to the classroom and your students.

I know that you could have chosen easier jobs – and everyone knows there are plenty of better paying jobs--especially people with your high level of mathematical knowledge.

Opening Remarks of Arne Duncan at Indiana Town Hall with Governor Mitch Daniels

Thank you for having me here today.

I'm here at a time when Americans everywhere are asking some very tough questions of themselves -- and it all comes down to this: What will it take to dramatically improve public education in America?

The Next Generation of Civics Education

I want to extend my thanks to the many people here today who are on the frontlines of the effort to strengthen and reinvigorate civics education.

It's a special privilege to be here with one of my heroes, Justice O'Connor. After more than twenty years on the bench, everyone would have understood if she withdrew from public life and took up quieter pursuits. But she didn't.

The Road Less Traveled

Thank you, Elise. And thanks to United Way LA for convening this Summit, and for its steadfast commitment to driving education reform here.

I believe that this Summit is timed just right, because the public school system of Los Angeles is at a crossroads today.

Preparing Students with Disabilities for Success: Secretary Duncan's Remarks to the American Association for People with Disabilities

It's an absolute honor to be here tonight, and I know our time is short, and I don't want to stand between you and dinner, so I'm going to get right to the point. In order to win the future, as President Obama has challenged us, we must enable every single American to reach their potential, and in my book, all means all.

Testimony on the Pell Grant Program by Under Secretary Martha Kanter Before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies

Mr. Chairman and Members of the Committee:

Secretary Arne Duncan's Remarks at Kenmore Middle School in Arlington, Virginia

Two years ago, I came to Washington with one goal-- to give every single child in America the very best education possible.

While I was optimistic about what we could accomplish, I never imagined we would be where we are today.

Over the last two years, we have seen more change in our education system than we've seen over the past two decades.

Enough Is Enough: Secretary Duncan's Remarks at the White House Conference on Bullying Prevention

Back in August, the U.S. Department of Education and several other agencies convened the first-ever federally sponsored conference on bullying.

That day demonstrated a new commitment to do the hard work to fight bullying across federal agencies.

Winning the Future with Education: Responsibility, Reform and Results

Chairman Kline, Ranking Member Miller, and Members of the Committee:

Thank you for this opportunity to come here today and talk about President Obama's education agenda.

Last week I spoke before the Senate Budget Committee and emphasized our administration's dual commitments to reduce spending and be more efficient while investing in education to secure our future.