AFSA’s members are concerned with the current state of public education, as they see first-hand the negative impact that failed policies have on our nation’s children. That is why the Executive Board of the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA), AFL-CIO, has voted unanimously to endorse Senator Barack Obama for President. We believe strongly that Senator Obama, as President, will support policies investing in early-childhood and public school education. Also, our members are the ones ultimately held accountable under the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) and therefore support Senator Obama’s pledge to fully fund and overhaul NCLB.

Senator Obama responded to our endorsement: “I’m honored to have the endorsement of the American Federation of School Administrators and grateful for the commitment they’re making to help us win this November. With AFSA’s support, I’m confident that with this election, we’re going to begin bringing about a better future for all our children and for this country we love.”

There are many reasons AFSA has elected to endorse Senator Obama for President. Unlike his opponent, Obama is an ardent supporter of exemplary public education and the education professionals who are accountable for the quality of teaching and learning. Unlike his opponent, Obama has pledged to fully fund and overhaul the No Child Left Behind Act and fully fund early childhood education. Unlike his opponent, he supports workers’ rights- particularly the right of professionals to belong to unions and collectively bargain, and he will work to ensure that every working American in this country has the health care they need.

This country must move forward with the optimism and commitment to economic and social growth and policies that the Obama campaign exemplifies. Public schools need increased support, all children need access to excellent and equitable educational opportunities in modern schools with modern equipment, all workers deserve the right to form a union and have access to quality and affordable health care. AFSA believes Barack Obama, as President of the United States, will work toward these goals.

Our members take pride in leading our schools and they want a President who will respect them and provide them with the resources and support necessary to meet a multiplicity of challenges. The effect of a poor economy, poor health care, and negative social policies lead our children to the school door without the proper foundation so necessary for success. AFSA is proud to endorse Senator Obama.

This entry was posted on Thursday, August 14th, 2008 at 10:08 am and is filed under Uncategorized .