Duncan Hunter: “I also want to extend my appreciation to Chairman Kline for his leadership and tireless work toward improving the…”

“I also want to extend my appreciation to Chairman Kline for his leadership and tireless work toward improving the quality of education for America's children, as well as Ranking Member Kildee, my colleague on the subcommittee and full committee, Ranking Member Miller, as well as Jared Polis from Colorado, who is not even on this full committee but was very supportive of this legislation. Mr. Chairman, the Empowering Parents through Quality Charter Schools Act is a bill that will have a direct impact on our Nation's children. Expanding access to high-performing charter schools has the potential to make a world of difference for students across the Nation simply by adding a much needed layer of choice and competition that is good for the entire school system, not just charters. Unlike traditional public schools, the charter school model is not limited by a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, these institutions enjoy increased freedom from State and local rules and regulations in exchange for greater accountability. Also, the flexibility afforded to charter schools allows teachers and school administrators to adjust schedules and course work to better serve a wide range of students in their individual communities, including disadvantaged students. For example, a Louisiana charter school established in the wake of Hurricane Katrina enrolled many students who had fallen significantly behind other students their age after the disaster forced them to miss a full year of school.…”