Arlington, VA — A statement by Gayle Manchin, President of the National Association of State Boards of Education (NASBE), on President Barack Obama’s 2012 State of the Union address:

“We are pleased education was a significant piece of President Obama’s State of the Union address last night. It is important to keep the focus on education as a key domestic policy issue, as high-quality public education is a critical link in making sure America’s industry and citizens are equipped to remain competitive in the global economy. The federal government must recognize, however, the lead role of the states in education reform and the central role they play in education policy. States are the catalysts for innovation in public education, and state boards are responsible for adopting and implementing effective policies nationwide.”

“Now, it is time for the federal government to renew its partnership with states to ensure they are successful in meeting the overall needs of our nation’s students in a global economy. We look forward to exploring new ways we can promote and continue innovation in our schools.”