The National Education Association yesterday released a twelve-point plan for reducing school dropouts. In response, People For the American Way Foundation President Ralph G. Neas issued the following statement:

“I applaud the NEA for laying out a bold plan to reduce school dropouts. The plan should spark a renewed public discussion over how we can strengthen our public schools and ensure that every child receives a quality education. We are especially pleased that this plan seeks to benefit communities of color, which tend to have dropout rates higher than the national average. As we face new and unexpected obstacles, our country needs educated citizens who have the tools necessary to tackle the challenges ahead. Addressing educational inequity is one of the most important steps our country can take to secure a positive future.

“We know that students with more education are more likely to become civically engaged than those who drop out. Reducing high school dropouts not only fosters an educated society, but a more engaged populace by creating intelligent, critical voters who can demand the most out of their government.”

“Being an American requires active citizenship, and that requires an excellent public education for every child.”