Clinton praises schools, criticizes Congress
President asks for end to violence, education support
By Rashmi Nijagal
Daily Bruin Staff
As Gov. Pete Wilson tours the East trying to gather support for
a potential presidential campaign in ’96, President Clinton made
his way to Los Angeles this past weekend to address the National
Education Association (NEA) at its School Safety Summit.
Citing violence in schools as a serious threat to children and
the education system, Clinton called on lawmakers, teachers,
parents and students alike to put aside their differences and work
together to solve the rising problem of violence in schools.
"This is not just a school problem  it is a social
problem," Clinton said. "People with real problems and real dreams
need practical solutions based on what we know that works in our
lives and shared experience, so we can go forward together as a
nation."
One in 12 students in 1993 carried a gun, according to The
Centers for Disease Control. Despite the growing number of students
involved in violent activities in schools, Clinton noted some
successful anti-violence measures, such as the zero tolerance
policy which requires a student to be expelled for one year if they
bring a gun to school. San Diego, which implements this policy,
noted a 50 percent decrease in the number of students carrying guns
in 1993.
"I think that in a society where democracy and freedom have been
the foundation, one of the biggest opportunities has been
education," said Lorna Peacock, a member of the education
association and a teacher at Sunny Mead Elementary School in Moreno
Valley. "The President emphasized the fact that the whole country
is concerned with the safety of its citizens, and that education
(not violence) is the key to empowerment."
In addition to outlining concerns over school safety, Clinton
also attacked Congress for its efforts to cut educational
funding.
"We have to cut government, but not at the expense of our safety
and our children," Clinton said in reference to his dissatisfaction
with the Republican Congress.
The summit also featured workshops on various subjects ranging
from community relations and gang violence. Over 800 educators,
parents, students and civic representatives attended the gathering.
Many were impressed by Clinton’s speech and his commitment to
education and safety.
"President Clinton really emphasized the fact that people have
to use their judgment when it comes to violence," Diane Castro, a
Showtime TV publicist said. "I think he’s very committed to
education. That is clear not just through this speech, but through
his actions as well."