Political Quotes

“I rise today to introduce legislation designed to improve educational opportunities for struggling students. The All Students Achieving Through Reform Act, or All-STAR Act, would provide Federal resources to the most successful charter schools to help them grow and replicate. Last week, I visited the KIPP Ascend Charter School in Chicago. You might have heard of the KIPP charter schools. The first KIPP school was founded in Texas by two Teach for America teachers. Mike Feinberg and Dave Levin wanted to start a school that would inspire high achievement for students living in disadvantaged communities. The 82 KIPP schools nationwide focus on high expectations, an intense academic curriculum, expanded school days and years, parental involvement, and high quality teachers. The results are impressive. While less than one in five low-income students attends college nationally, KIPP's college matriculation rate stands at more than 85 percent for students who complete the 8th grade at KIPP. More than 90 percent of KIPP alumni go on to college-preparatory high schools. Collectively, they have earned millions of dollars in scholarships and financial aid since 2000. I saw this success when I visited Chicago's KIPP school. Students at KIPP Ascend are actively engaged in learning and their teachers are energetic and inspiring.”