[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 136 (Wednesday, September 14, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1634]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         EMPOWERING PARENTS THROUGH QUALITY CHARTER SCHOOLS ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. JUDY BIGGERT

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 8, 2011

       The House in Committee of the Whole House on the state of 
     the Union had under consideration the bill (H.R. 2218) to 
     amend the charter school program under the Elementary and 
     Secondary Education Act of 1965:

  Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Chair, I rise today in support of H.R. 2218, the 
Empowering Parents through Quality Charter Schools Act.
  While there is no silver bullet to resolve all the problems facing 
our nation's education system, this bill represents a critical step 
toward better preparing our children to meet the challenges of a 21st 
century economy. It is also the first major element of reform to be 
acted on this year by either chamber of Congress.
  We all want our kids to be able to attend a great school. It's like 
my father told me, ``If you have a good education, you can accomplish 
anything.''
  That's why transparent and accountable charter schools are so 
important. They ensure greater access among our children to the high-
quality education they deserve. Moreover, charter schools often operate 
in flexible and innovative ways that promote student success.
  Unfortunately, demand for these opportunities continues to outpace 
supply. Over 400,000 U.S. students remain on waiting lists for 
enrollment in charter schools.
  That's why I support H.R. 2218, which contains provisions that will 
remove barriers to the establishment of charter schools, improve 
academic performance, and reduce the number of students waiting for 
admission. This legislation also establishes commonsense quality 
controls that will protect students and taxpayers alike. The bill 
requires accurate assessments of schools though independent financial 
audits, and establishes clear academic and performance standards.
  Following passage in the House, this bill will be sent to the Senate, 
where I hope it receives the consideration it deserves. And, should it 
be signed into law, I will continue to work with my colleagues to 
monitor its impact and ensure that our nation's charter school system 
continues to reflect the transparency and accountability required by 
this legislation.

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