Pelosi Statement on Departure of Education Secretary Arne Duncan

"Education Secretary Arne Duncan is a transformative, visionary, committed leader who has dedicated his career to inspiring students, teachers and families by equipping them with the resources and skills needed to excel and succeed in and out of the classroom.  As an inspirational leader, he has been a stalwart partner in working together to strengthen America's schools.

"Since taking the helm of the Education Department in 2009, Secretary Duncan has been a bold and energetic champion of public education from early childhood to life-long learning who helped increase access to high-quality early preschool for millions of children.  He has helped America meet the challenge of college affordability so that cost is never a barrier to students.  Secretary Duncan has devoted his energy and fought for all students.

"The American education system faces many challenges, but none more critical than the need to prepare our children for a global economy.  Thanks to Secretary Duncan's tenure as the longest-serving education secretary in history, his unwavering efforts to close the achievement gap has left America better prepared to meet that challenge.  Under the continued leadership of the Obama Administration and Deputy Education Secretary John King, Jr., I am confident that we can continue our partnership in expanding educational opportunity to students of all backgrounds regardless of their zip code and further strengthening our economy and our democracy."