[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 127, 113th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8975--MAY 3, 2013

Proclamation 8975 of May 3, 2013

National Charter Schools Week, 2013
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
America's success in the 21st century depends on what we do today to
reignite the true engine of our economic growth: a thriving middle
class. Achieving that vision means making sure our education system
provides ladders of opportunity for our sons and daughters. We need to
equip all our students with the education and skills that put them on
the path to good jobs and a bright future--no matter where they live or
what school they attend.
Charter schools play an important role in meeting that obligation. These
learning laboratories give educators the chance to try new models and
methods that can encourage excellence in the classroom and prepare more
of our children for college and careers. In return for this flexibility,
we should expect high standards and accountability, and make tough
decisions to close charter schools that are underperforming and not
improving. But where charter schools demonstrate success and exceed
expectations, we should share what they learn with other public schools
and replicate those that produce dramatic results. Many charter schools
choose to locate in communities with few high-quality educational
options, making them an important partner in widening the circle of
opportunity for students who need it most.
Our children are ready to write the next great chapter in the American
story. As parents and teachers and citizens, it is up to all of us to
provide them the tools they need to keep our country moving forward--
from a degree that leads to a good job to the critical thinking skills
that make our democracy thrive. This week, we recognize charter schools
that are advancing those goals, and we recommit to helping our Nation's
children go as far as their talents will take them.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 5 through May 11,
2013, as National Charter Schools Week. I commend our Nation's charter
schools, teachers, and administrators, and I call on States and
communities to support charter schools and the students they serve.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of May,
in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the In-



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dependence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.
BARACK OBAMA