McCain outlines education plans

ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 1 (UPI) -- John McCain used a speech before the National Urban League in Florida to pledge support of the Education Equality Project, an educational opportunity program.

Noting that the Rev. Jessie Jackson and former Republican Oklahoma Rep. J.C. Watts both endorsed the program, McCain said, "I am proud to add my name as well to the list of those who support the aims and principles of the Education Equality Project."

Sen. Barack Obama's name was missing, the likely Republican presidential candidate said.

"My opponent talks a great deal about hope and change, and education is as good a test as any of his seriousness," McCain said. "The Education Equality Project is a practical plan for delivering change and restoring hope for children and parents who need a lot of both. And if Senator Obama continues to defer to the teachers unions, instead of committing to real reform, then he should start looking for new slogans."

Noting that the Democratic Illinois senator was addressing the Orlando conference Saturday, McCain, R-Ariz., said, "I hope you'll listen carefully, because his ideas are not always as impressive as his rhetoric."

McCain outlined his plan include more choices for people wanting to become teachers, bonuses for teachers working in troubled schools, allowing public school principals to have discretion in spending and private school vouchers for low-income families.

He also praised the Urban League for bringing "enormous good into the life of our country -- by broadening the reach of economic opportunity."