[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 58 (Wednesday, May 2, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E706]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               SUPPORTING A NATIONAL CHARTER SCHOOLS WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                            HON. JIM DeMINT

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 1, 2001

  Mr. DeMINT. Mr. Speaker, Americans are united around a common goal to 
help every child in America to receive a world class education. It is a 
goal that should unite this legislative body around successful 
education policies--ideas that respond to parents, empower teachers, 
and educate children.
  As we work to improve America's education, let's not lose focus on 
what is working--such as the tremendous growth and proven success of 
America's charter schools.
  Charter schools prosper because they bind parents, teachers, 
community and state leaders together to tailor an education program 
that fits the needs of local students. They prosper because they 
unleash the intelligence and innovation of our students.
  Earlier this year, in partnership with the South Carolina Department 
of Education, I hosted a Public Charter School Summit in Greenville, 
South Caroline. The summit's purpose was simple: educate and excite 
local leaders about the potential of charter schools in South Carolina.
  We told them that charter schools are public schools that are free 
from many state and local requirements. In exchange for this freedom 
and flexibility to try new approaches in education, the school must 
deliver results in student achievement. It is a contract with the 
governing board--flexibility in exchange for proven academic results.
  By drawing upon the ideas and energy of local and state leaders, 
South Carolina and other states can turn the education corner. That is 
how strongly I believe in the transforming ability of charter schools.
  We owe our best effort to improve the schools of our state. I am 
proud of the charter schools which have opened in South Carolina. They 
have banded together to form the South Carolina Charter School 
Association, an organization that has helped charter schools not only 
survive, but flourish in South Carolina. I commend our state's efforts 
to lift hurdles in the current charter school law and move to make 
South Carolina a charter-friendly state.
  The education of our children is a public trust which we must not 
take highly. Like many other aspects of our culture and society, there 
are principles that stand the test of time. But we need to boldly 
explore creative solutions that allow our nation's institutions to fit 
the needs and demands of modern times. Our students deserve a top-
notch, cutting-edge education system.
  Charter schools are supported by leaders of both parties and of all 
political learnings. It is hard to dispute the results when 
competition, education flexibility, and community partnerships are 
offered to America's schools.
  Mr. Speaker, in the midst of all our debates over ways to improve 
America's schools, I ask that we pause and give special attention and 
recognition to the work of charter schools all across the nation. 
Thousands of parents, teachers, community leaders, and students are 
providing each day that schools will succeed when education dollars and 
decisions are kept close to the community.

                          ____________________