***MEDIA ADVISORY*** Subcommittee to Explore the Role of Charter Schools in the Nation's Education System

***MEDIA ADVISORY*** Subcommittee to Explore the Role of Charter Schools in the Nation's Education System

The following was published by the House Committee on Education and Labor on May 31, 2011. It is reproduced in full below.

On Wednesday, June 1 at 12:00 p.m., the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education, chaired by Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-CA), will hold a hearing entitled “Education Reforms: Exploring the Vital Role of Charter Schools." The hearing will take place in room 2175 of the Rayburn House Office Building.

Charter schools are independent public schools that embody two key principles American families want from the nation’s education system: choice and flexibility. These innovative institutions emphasize parental involvement, encourage innovative instruction, and demand high academic standards. Charter schools continuously monitor parental approval and student progress, and they are held accountable for results.

Wednesday’s hearing will examine the exceptional ability of charter schools to meet the education needs of special populations and individual communities. Members will also explore ways to improve charter school quality and expand access, empowering more families with choices about their children’s education.

To learn more about this hearing, visit www.republicans-edlabor.house.gov/hearings. WITNESS LIST

Ms. DeAnna Rowe

Executive Director

Arizona State Board for Charter Schools

Phoenix, AZ

Ms. Debbie Beyer

Executive Director

Literacy First Charter Schools

El Cajon, CA

Dr. Beth Purvis

Executive Director

Chicago International Charter School

Chicago, IL

Additional witnesses to be announced.

Source: House Committee on Education and Labor