U.S. Representative John Boehner
Boehner Backs Bipartisan Charter Schools Bill

WASHINGTON, DC – As the U.S. House begins consideration of the bipartisan Success and Opportunity through Quality Charter Schools Act, Congressman John Boehner (R-West Chester) – a long-time supporter of school choice and the charter school movement – today released this video message recognizing Charter Schools Week.

“It’s the parents and educators at charter schools like Richard Allen Academy and Springfield Academy of Excellence in the 8th District who work tirelessly to make sure every one of our kids has a fair shot at a good education – which is critical to building a stronger economy. The Success and Opportunity through Quality Charter Schools Act puts more tools and resources into the hands of our parents and teachers, so we can replicate the successful charter school programs in this country and get kids off of waiting lists and into classrooms. I look forward to passing it out of the House this week, and I hope the Senate will take it up and send it to the president’s desk as soon as possible.”

Following is the transcript from Boehner’s video recognizing Charter Schools Week:

“Did you know that, right now, the waiting list to get into charter schools has about a million names on it?

I’m not surprised at all; charter schools work.

They’re succeeding at a time when, let’s face it, many traditional schools are struggling. In our area, we currently have more than half a dozen charter schools. But there could be a lot more, if the education establishment would just get out of our way.

To honor National Charter Schools Week, the House is about to begin debating a bill that will expand charter school programs.

These are good reforms with bipartisan support.

We’re doing our part to expand choice in private schools. Here’s a way to do the same in public schools.

To learn more, just go to boehner.house.gov.

NOTE: This week, in a press conference with Republican leadership, Rep. Boehner was joined by charter school students and their families in rallying support for the Success and Opportunity through Quality Charter Schools Act.

The Success and Opportunity through Quality Charter Schools Act was introduced by Rep. John Kline (R-MN), Chairman of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.