14-R266

2014 – S 3009

Enacted 04/14/14

S E N A T E   R E S O L U T I O N

PROCLAIMING MAY 14, 2014, AS "CHARTER PUBLIC SCHOOL DAY" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

Introduced By: Senators Doyle, Nesselbush, DiPalma, Metts, and Walaska

Date Introduced: May 14, 2014

 

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, three district charter schools, fourteen independent charter schools, and two mayoral academies have been established serving over 4,000 students from across the state; 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, charter schools are open to the public, funded by the public, and accountable to the public; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations hereby proclaims May 14, 2014, as "Charter Public School Day" in the State of Rhode Island and recognizes the achievement of our nineteen charter public schools; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to the Principals/Directors of Rhode Island’s charter public schools.

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LC005669
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