[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 135 (Friday, September 19, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1473]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          IN SUPPORT OF THE NATIONAL PARENTS CORPS ACT OF 2014

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                            HON. JOHN LEWIS

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 18, 2014

  Mr. LEWIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to reintroduce the National 
Parents Corps Act of 2014. I am proud to author this legislation which 
intends to combat youth violence and substance abuse in our country's 
schools.
  The National Parents Corps Act aims to continue the successful 
National Parents Corps program first initiated in 2003. The bill 
revitalizes a program which trains parent leaders to collaborate with 
schools, students, and the community in order to proactively work 
together in deterring and reducing alcohol and drug abuse, bullying, 
gang involvement, and other dangerous activities.
  The program targets middle school students and creates a 
collaborative network to recognize and respond to dangerous trends in 
the most susceptible school-age population--middle school. 
Professionally-trained parent leaders will build critical networks 
between students, parents, teachers, administrators, local law 
enforcement, and the community. They will develop prevention programs, 
share scientific research, best practices, and create spaces of open 
dialogue and targeted action.
  Mr. Speaker, I have always stood for investing in children and for 
peaceful communities, which is why I am reintroducing this legislation. 
No child should live his or her life in fear or marked by drugs and 
violence. This bill responds to a clear need, with a targeted and 
effective approach, and I hope all of my colleagues will join this 
common-sense effort to support healthy, safe, schools.

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