Arlington, VA — A statement by Patrick A. Guida, President of the National Association of State Boards of Education (NASBE), on President Barack Obama’s 2013 State of the Union address:

“It was gratifying to hear the President stress the desire of the Administration to work with states in growing preschool programs nationwide. NASBE members recognize that high-quality preschool programs have significant long-term benefits for learning, and NASBE positions have long called for increasing standards for teachers of young children, equal access for all children to quality early childhood programs, and accountability for preschool programs based on a continuous improvement approach.

“NASBE also appreciates the President’s emphasis on ensuring that high schools better equip graduates for careers in a high-tech economy. All of us in the states are working hard to ensure our students are college- and career-ready. As always, we look forward to working with the Administration on finding new and innovative ways to develop partnerships that will continue to help public school students be prepared for life after high school.”