Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: FRIDAY, April 1, 1994                   TAG: 9404010264
SECTION: NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL                    PAGE: A3   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: WASHINGTON                                LENGTH: Medium

CLINTON SIGNS HISTORIC EDUCATE AMERICA ACT

President Clinton signed the Goals 2000 Educate America Act into law Thursday and, by July 1, the first $105 million will begin flowing to states that apply for it.

"This is the beginning. It is the foundation. Today we can say America is serious about education," Clinton said just before signing the bill on the outdoor basketball court of a San Diego elementary school.

The law requires participating states to develop - but not implement - education reform plans that set voluntary standards on curriculum; student performance; and the resources, materials and teacher preparation necessary to ensure that all children have an opportunity to learn.

The bill authorizes $647 million this year for education reforms that move toward that goal, including $400 million in grants to states and local school agencies.

The Education Department promises a "quick and simple application" process. "It's really inconceivable that any state that applies won't get funds," said Mike Cohen, a senior adviser to Education Secretary Richard Riley.

Among the things to be examined: how the states plan to get the money to local school districts and individual schools.

States will have two years to complete their reform plans. "If we're convinced it's aimed at challenging standards for all students, if the plan is really comprehensive and it's a promising one, we'll continue to provide funding," he said.

Cohen said virtually every state already has begun to search for ways to invigorate a public education system judged by many to be failing. American students consistently score behind their European and Japanese counterparts in math and science.

\ EDUCATION GOALS\ IN NEW LAW\ All children will arrive at school ready to learn.\ \ The high school graduation rate will increase to at least 90 percent.\ Students will master challenging subject matter.\ \ Teachers will have access to training programs to improve their skills.\ \ U.S. students will be first in the world in math and science.\ \ All adult Americans will be literate and able to compete in a global economy.\ \ Every school will be free of drugs and violence.\ \ Every school will strive to increase parental involvement and participation in their children's education.