12-R244

2012 -- H 8117

Enacted 05/02/12

H O U S E R E S O L U T I O N

PROCLAIMING MAY 2, 2012, AS

"CHARTER PUBLIC SCHOOL DAY" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

Introduced By: Representatives Silva, Newberry, Slater, Mattiello, and Savage

Date Introduced: May 02, 2012

WHEREAS, Education is the gateway to a brighter future for our children and nation.

During National Charter Schools Week, we celebrate charter schools’ commitment to academic

achievement, accountability, and innovation. We recognize the vital role charter schools play in

fostering an America where children have the knowledge and skills they need to grow, succeed,

and achieve their dreams; and

     WHEREAS, As a publically-funded alternative to traditional public schools, charter

schools have expanded our understanding of public education by embracing the spirit of

discovery and providing innovative avenues for success; and

     WHEREAS, Since the 1995 passage of Rhode Island’s charter public schools’ enabling

legislation, sixteen start-up institutions have been established serving over 4,600 students from

thirty-four communities; and

     WHEREAS, Charter public schools are independent public schools of choice that are free

to be innovative and are accountable for student achievement; and

     WHEREAS, Today, Rhode Island charter public schools primarily serve urban areas and

face the challenges of poverty at a higher than average rate. Yet, these schools continue to be

among the strongest in the state; and

     WHEREAS, Charter public schools provide an alternative public education to students

who desire a different learning environment than that provided by traditional public schools.

Charter public schools provide Rhode Island parents and students their only public school

choice option; and

     WHEREAS, Charter public schools are designed to deliver programs tailored to

educational excellence and community need; and

     WHEREAS, Because they are public schools of choice, they are open to the public,

funded by the public, and are accountable to the public; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island and

Providence Plantations hereby proclaims May 2, 2012, as “Charter Public School Day” in the

State of Rhode Island and recognizes the achievement of our sixteen charter public schools; and

be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and he hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to the Principals/Directors of Rhode Island’s

sixteen charter public schools.

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LC02553

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