This is a problem we can help solve. To this end, I have, with the support of a group of Democrats and Republicans, put forth a plan that will appeal to moderates of both parties. Called the Empowering Parents Act, it aims to triple the number of charter schools in the country by 2005 and encourages school districts through grants to enact public school choice. Our federal government is currently blessed with the largest surpluses in our nation s history. Using even the smallest percent of it for real education reform today, we can build schools that will last for decades, and provide educational opportunities to last throughout these children s lifetimes.
Educational opportunity is a hollow promise for children trapped in failing schools.
Increasing the number of charter schools and expanding access to public school choice gives parents a better chance to help children fulfill their potential. East Side Charter school a chance to succeed. If the Congress and President are serious about bipartisanship, we can do the same for our nation.