R 248

2015 -- S 0875 Enacted 05/06/2015

S E N A T E   R E S O L U T I O N

PROCLAIMING MAY 6, 2015, TO BE "CHARTER PUBLIC SCHOOL DAY" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

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

Date Introduced: May 05, 2015

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

During National Charter Public 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, twenty-one charter schools have been established serving over 6,400 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, they are open to the public,

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

RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode and Providence Plantations hereby

proclaims May 6, 2015 to be "Charter Public Schools Day" in the State of Rhode Island, and

recognizes the achievement of our twenty-one 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

twenty-one charter public schools.

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