[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 52 (Thursday, May 4, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E724]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     CONGRATULATING CHARTER SCHOOLS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 3, 2006

  Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to 
congratulate Charter Schools across the country and in the 21st 
District of Florida for their continuing work to educate our country's 
youth. Charter schools are a great asset for our children and for our 
public school system. By providing flexible programs, community 
outreach, and specialized training, charter schools serve the ever 
changing needs of our students. The City of Pembroke Pines Florida 
Charter School, located within the 21st District of Florida, stands as 
an exemplary model of excellence among all charter schools.
  Under Governor Jeb Bush's A-plus plan, the Pembroke Pines charter 
elementary and middle schools have all earned an ``A'' for the past two 
years for exceptional student achievement. The Pembroke Pines Charter 
School standardized test scores are outstanding. By all measures, this 
charter school has exceeded its goals and reached beyond expectations.
  The City of Pembroke Pines Florida Charter School is exceptional for 
another reason: its specialized training for autistic students. At 
Pembroke Pines, autistic students receive training tailored to their 
unique and individual needs. Not only do these students receive the 
personal attention that they need, they also are assimilated into the 
general school population. This innovative program brilliantly serves 
both needs of our autistic students by expanding their academic ability 
while fostering good social skills among the general student body.
  I wholeheartedly commend our charter schools for their hard work and 
devotion to our children. With creative solutions and selfless 
dedication, these schools provide an invaluable service to the next 
generation of Americans. On the occasion of National Charter Schools 
week, I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest 
support for this resolution. Most of all, I extend my heartfelt 
gratitude to the teachers, administrators, and students of our Nation's 
charter schools.

                          ____________________