Political Quotes

“school choice works. Consider the recent example of Albany, New York. Philanthropist Virginia Gilder identified one of the worst schools in the entire city and offered every student a scholarship of $2,000. One-sixth of the children at that school took her up on the offer and transferred to private schools. What was the result? Here is what the Washington Post reports: ``It worked. The school board ousted the principal, brought in nine new teachers, added two assistant principals and invested in books, equipment and teacher training after years of neglect.'' Faced with the prospect of losing its students to the competition, Albany's school system reformed itself. Albany's example shows that school choice helps not only the students who receive scholarships, it also helps the children who remain in public schools. Mr. Speaker, if it worked in Albany, it can work in Anacostia. Next month, the House will consider school choice legislation for the children of the District. I urge my colleagues to support it.”