Public Schools Week

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

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 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.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source