[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 105 (Thursday, July 14, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1322]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         INTRODUCTION OF THE 21ST CENTURY READINESS ACT OF 2011

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                          HON. THOMAS E. PETRI

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 14, 2011

  Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, in order for our students to be competitive 
in the global economy, we must do our part to ensure that they are 
acquiring the knowledge and skills they need for success.
  The skills needed for success go beyond the basics of reading, 
writing, and math, however. When surveyed, employers continually 
emphasize that, in our 21st century economy, students need to be adept 
at critical thinking and problem solving; communication; collaboration; 
and creativity and innovation, in addition to being proficient in core 
subjects.
  Sixteen states, as well as local school districts from across the 
country, have formed a partnership with over thirty leading education 
organizations and corporate entities to find ways to strengthen 21st 
century skills in their K-12 classrooms. However, this momentum isn't 
sustainable unless federal policy gives states and districts the 
flexibility to innovate in this direction.
  To remedy this, Representative Dave Loebsack and I are introducing 
the 21st Century Readiness Act. This bill does not create any new 
programs or authorize additional spending; instead, it would amend the 
Elementary and Secondary Education Act, ESEA, to emphasize the 
importance of 21st century skills and give states and districts added 
flexibility to develop and enhance these skills as part of their own 
initiatives.
  A growing coalition of states and school districts has recognized the 
importance of giving our students the tools they need to succeed in our 
21st century workforce. This bill will give them the flexibility to 
succeed in these efforts.
  I hope that our colleagues will join us in this effort.

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