Montana Secretary of State Linda McCulloch Urges Nation’s Top Education Leader to Seek Input from Montana Businesses When Considering Education Reform

McCulloch Urges Nation’s Top Education Leader to Seek Input from Montana Businesses When Considering Education Reform

Secretary of State Linda McCulloch recently spoke on behalf of Montana businesses when she urged the nation’s top education leader to seek input from the business community when discussing education reform in the state. Education Secretary Arne Duncan is in Billings today along with Secretary Shaun Donovan of the U.S. Department of Housing and Development to discuss the issues facing housing and education in rural America.

In a letter to Secretary Duncan, McCulloch reminded the new leader that Montana businesses "depend on a well educated and trained workforce that is prepared to face the challenges of our changing economy."

"I urge you to keep some of the goals.including high standards for math and reading, focusing on groups of minority children and children with various learning disabilities, and providing help for schools that are not doing well. But by all means, stop the methods that have been counterproductive and will surely damage our education system," wrote McCulloch.

"Our economy requires people who can learn and work in different businesses and environments, and who can create their own companies and jobs. I encourage you to keep Montana (businesses) in mind as you move forward."

Enclosed with the letter, McCulloch included a Montana position paper that she helped create with local organizations regarding the federal program.

To review the position paper or Secretary of State Linda McCulloch’s letter to U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, please logon to the Secretary of State’s website at: http://sos.mt.gov/News/index.asp

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Terri L. Knapp

Communications Director

MT Secretary of State Linda McCulloch

Phone: (406) 444-2807

Cell: (406) 465-2564

Email: [email protected]