A Voter's Guide to Education

According to a recent USA Today/Gallup poll, voters consider education the third most important issue, behind only the economy and Iraq. Here's a look at where the candidates stand on everything from merit pay to No Child Left Behind. You decide who makes the grade.

Senator Hillary Clinton

Hartford Courant / AP
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'Developing a 21st century education system ... is a national priority, but achieving that goal will take a real partnership with local schools.'

Clinton calls for an end to No Child Left Behind (NCLB), which she voted for in 2001. As an alternative, she supports broader assessments of progress in schools than the formulas set out by NCLB. Clinton would also provide incentives for community groups to get involved in education.

Bright Idea
Would devote $1 billion for programs to reduce dropout rates among minority students

No Child Left Behind
No: Wants to end it. Says it is underfunded and puts too much emphasis on standardized tests

Vouchers
No: Believes that vouchers divert resources from the public-school system

Merit Pay
Maybe: Favors schoolwide performance-based pay but not merit pay for individuals

Longer School Day or Year
Yes: Supports the concept but doesn't specify it in her education plans

View the full list for "A Voter's Guide to Education"