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[Pages H2800-H2801]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
{time} 1015
PUBLIC SCHOOLS WEEK
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from
Pennsylvania (Mr. Thompson) for 5 minutes.
Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, this week, our Nation
celebrates Public Schools Week. It is a time when we acknowledge the
diversity and success of our public schools and the sound education
that they provide. Strengthening America's public schools is the best
way to ensure our children's future success and our country's
prosperity.
Ninety percent of American children attend public schools. This week,
supporters across the country will share stories of the many schools,
students, and professionals who make public schools such vital
components of our communities. This includes parents who are working
hard to improve educational outcomes for children. Advocates nationwide
will share scores of stories about public school students and their
successes.
Mr. Speaker, public school teachers truly make a difference in the
lives of our students. They prepare them for bright and successful
futures. It is
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their dedication to our students that builds strong public schools and,
therefore, strong communities.
As a senior member of the Education and Labor Committee and a product
of public schools, I know the incredible role our schools play in
communities across the Nation.
Public schools today have much good news to share, from increasing
graduation rates and reduced dropout rates, to improved ratings given
by communities on school performance.
Public schools welcome every child, regardless of ability, race,
wealth, language, country of origin, or needs. By strengthening the
public school system, we strengthen the democracy of our country.
Supporting public schools today will build a stronger workforce for
tomorrow. The future of our Nation to produce in the manufacturing
industry, the farm, and the information age will be based on the
investment we make today in supporting public schools. Schools today
are integrating the new ideas that are being explored by businesses and
industry.
Strong public schools are vital to our national security. Our
military's success is dependent on members who can apply their
knowledge and skills to navigate the increasingly complex tools that
keep our country safe.
In many communities, the school district is the largest employer.
Teachers, bus drivers, administrators, cafeteria workers, coaches, and
facilities management all depend on the school district, and all these
jobs contribute to the fabric of a community. Communities are stronger
and schools are better when we all work together to support public
education.
Public schools also make sure kids receive at least one nutritious
meal a day. More than 30 million school lunches are served each day,
including 20 million free and 2 million reduced priced lunches. For
some students, the only meal that they receive will be the one that
they get at school.
Mr. Speaker, a child's opportunity for success should not be left to
chance. Every child needs a quality, well-equipped school right in
their neighborhood, where they can learn, be inspired, and thrive.
Public education has always been the great equalizer in the United
States. I am grateful for the contribution of our public schools, and I
know that, together, we will continue to work to strengthen them for
our most precious resource: our children.
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