News Article - Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

For Immediate Release
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
Contact:	Heidi B. Perlman 781-223-1902 (cell)

Statement from Education Commissioner David P. Driscoll on Today’s SJC Decision on Hancock vs. Driscoll

Malden - "This historic decision is a direct result of the hard work of our school districts, Department of Education staff, our Governors and legislators and the demonstrable progress our students have made over the past decade. Particular credit should be given to Deirdre Roney and the rest of our litigation team, and to Department personnel who provided the compelling evidence that proved to the courts that we are meeting our responsibilities to our children. While some may see this as a time to celebrate, I see it as a time to accept the full responsibility given to the Governor, Legislature and the Department of Education to complete the work at hand, and get as many students as possible to higher levels of achievement. The Court has affirmed that we are meeting our Constitutional duty, but our job is far from done. This Commonwealth, the very birthplace of American public education, needs to come together around our public schools. Given the ever increasing demands of the global economy, it’s never been more important for our children to not just graduate, but to strive and reach higher levels of achievement than ever before."

Last Updated: February 15, 2005