US House Speaker John Boehner Joins 28 Governors, Legislatures in Recognizing Bipartisan National School Choice Week

Boehner “Proud” of Nation’s Largest-Ever Celebration of Education Reform; 400+ Events in All 50 States Galvanize Citizens to Fight for Reform Every Week of the Year

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--US House Speaker John Boehner officially recognized National School Choice Week today, joining the governors and legislatures of 28 states and US territories in praising the largest-ever celebration of education reform in American history.

“We are thrilled to have Speaker Boehner’s support—along with the support of other elected leaders in the Congress, like Senator Joe Lieberman and Rep. Jared Polis”

National School Choice Week (January 22-28, 2012 – www.SchoolChoiceWeek.com) has brought together tens of thousands of students, parents, teachers, community leaders, and elected officials around the simple premise that parents should be empowered to select the best schools – public district schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, private schools, virtual education, and homeschooling – for their children.

“National School Choice Week gives us a chance to celebrate the work being done year-round to break down barriers and open up opportunities for all students. It is thanks to the tireless efforts of committed parents, teachers, and advocates that we are making headway,” Boehner said. “This week, we renew our commitment to build on successful school choice initiatives like the Opportunity Scholarship Program in Washington, DC. The program has a proven track record of success, and provides a model that can work well around the country. I’ve always believed education reform starts with giving children in need a way out of chronically underperforming schools, and expanding opportunity in education can only expand opportunities in our workforce and our economy. I’m proud to support National School Choice Week.”

More than 400 events were planned during National School Choice Week 2012, spanning all 50 states, and featuring everyone from Bill Cosby to James Carville, Dick Morris, Joe Trippi, The Temptations, and more. Events will continue on Friday evening and Saturday.

“We are thrilled to have Speaker Boehner’s support—along with the support of other elected leaders in the Congress, like Senator Joe Lieberman and Rep. Jared Polis,” said Andrew Campanella, vice president of public affairs for National School Choice Week. “Regardless of your political affiliation, education reform is an American issue that impacts each and every one of us, and National School Choice Week has perfectly demonstrated that support for dramatic improvements to our education system is, in 2012, no longer constrained by partisan barriers.”