All, regardless of race or class or economic status, are entitled to a fair chance
and to the tools for developing their individual powers of mind and spirit to the utmost. 
This promise means that all children by virtue of their own efforts, competently guided, can hope to attain the mature and informed judgement needed to secure gainful employment, and to manage their lives, thereby serving not only their own interests but also the progress of society itself.

The National Commission on Excellence in Education