Secretary Reville Statement on Passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy

Senator Kennedy loved children and has, for decades, been the preeminent national champion for education. He saw education as the great equalizer and the route to opportunity and social justice for all children. He left his mark on all levels of education from his tireless advocacy for higher quality and additional access to early education and care to his leadership in promoting achievement while assuring financial support for elementary and secondary education to his unwavering commitment to ensuring more students attend and successfully complete college.

He fought for every child as he would have fought for his own. He made a positive difference in the lives of millions. It is a gross understatement to say that his leadership will be sorely missed.

We have lost our champion, our leader, but his spirit will continue to drive us forward. I will miss his friendship and professional support. Most of all, I want to express my enormous gratitude for his vision, advocacy and unparalleled persistence in pursuit of our nation’s education ideals. I offer my deepest condolences to his family.