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Press Release

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 13, 2010
Contact: Alexandra Schroeck
877-385-6264
alexandra@aaeteachers.org

AAE Applauds the Passage of Federal Charter School Bill (H.R. 2218)

Alexandria, VA —Today, the U.S. House of Representatives approved the Education and the Workforce Committee's first piece of education reform legislation intended to address the current issues under No Child Left Behind. Introduced by Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Chairman Duncan Hunter (R-CA), the Empowering Parents through Quality Charter Schools Act (H.R. 2218) passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in a vote of 365 to 54.

AAE Executive Director Gary Beckner commented on the passage today, releasing the following statement:

"Passing the Empowering Parents through Quality Charter Schools Act is a critical first step in reforming the current No Child Left Behind law and advancing the growing charter school movement nationwide. I am confident that its passage will spell success for the more than 420,000 students on charter school wait lists and create new and exciting opportunities for the teaching profession.

Our membership surveys suggest that teachers are very supportive of policies that empower and encourage the development and expansion of charter schools across the country and AAE is proud to stand with other like-minded organizations in support of this important legislation.

The fact is we need commonsense solutions that address the very real problems of current federal education policy. AAE has stood firmly behind the call for increased flexibility and the need for local control. While H.R. 2218 is a step in the right direction in terms of charters, we are hopeful that we will see movement in giving states and local districts the room they need to create systems that works for students and teachers alike."


The Association of American Educators is the largest national, non-union, professional educators' association, offering an alternative to the partisan politics and non-educational agendas of the teacher labor unions. AAE does not endorse, support or contribute to any political cause or candidacy. AAE has members in all 50 states and welcomes professionals from all education entities. Membership is $15 per month which includes $2 million professional liability insurance, employment rights coverage, professional development resources as well as a host of other benefits. Visit aaeteachers.org for further information.