05.09.14

Miller, Kline Praise Passage of Charter School Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House of Representatives today approved the Success and Opportunity through Quality Charter Schools Act (H.R. 10) with strong bipartisan support in a vote of 360 to 45. Introduced by House Education and the Workforce Committee Chairman John Kline (R-MN) and Senior Democratic Member George Miller (D-CA), the legislation supports state efforts to start, expand, and replicate high-performing charter schools.

“This bipartisan legislation will help ensure that every child in every neighborhood has access to a high-quality public education,” said Rep. Miller. “By harnessing the innovations coming out of public charter schools, replicating their successes, and sharing those lessons with non-charter schools, we can help make the promise of a quality public school for every child a reality. In particular, this legislation supports students who are traditionally underserved by charter schools, including those with disabilities and English-language learners, so that they can enjoy the same opportunities to succeed.”   

“As we work to help more students access a quality education, we must support charter schools as a valuable alternative to failing public schools,” Chairman Kline said. “The Success and Opportunity through Quality Charter Schools Act is a bipartisan initiative that will encourage the growth of charter schools and provide a new avenue of hope for children and their families. I want to thank my friend and colleague, Mr. Miller, for working with me to craft this legislation and helping us garner such overwhelming support both on the House floor and in the education community. But our work to provide more education options for students isn’t done yet. I encourage my Senate colleagues to join us in supporting the charter school movement by bringing this invaluable proposal up for a vote without delay.”

To learn more about the Success and Opportunity through Quality Charter Schools Act , click here.