Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the manager's amendment offered by myself and Mr. Miller. In all our goals for an improved education system, one stands above the rest: ensuring students have access to a quality education. My colleagues and I firmly believe supporting the growth of high- performing charter schools will help us reach that goal. Charter schools epitomize choice and flexibility in education, and represent an efficient way school districts can transform an underperforming traditional public school into a dynamic learning institution. Thanks to the additional autonomy afforded to these institutions, charter schools have become renowned for their ability to effectively meet the needs of the unique student population. A great case study of adaptability of charters is Locke High School, located in the tough South Central area of Los Angeles. Students in this area face a multitude of challenges--from gang violence to poverty to troubled homes. Locke High School had some of the lowest test scores and highest dropout rates in the country. Only roughly 5 percent of its students went on to 4-year colleges and universities. In 2007, the LA Unified School District agreed to transform Locke High School into a public charter school. Charter school officials instituted broad changes to the school, such as improved facilities, new teachers, parental volunteer hours, uniforms, and strict disciplinary measures.…”