Press Releases

U.S. House Education and the Workforce Committee Chairman John Kline (R-MN) joined senior committee member Howard P. “Buck” McKeon (R-CA) in voting to reauthorize the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program (D.C. OSP). The Scholarships for Opportunity and Results (SOAR) Act (H.R. 471) passed the House with bipartisan support in a vote of 225 to 195.

“Today’s vote is a victory for disadvantaged students throughout our nation’s capital,” said Chairman Kline. “Over the last seven years, the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program has placed a quality education within reach of students previously trapped in underperforming schools. This program has engaged parents, motivated children, and helped the dream of a diploma become a reality for thousands of D.C. students. It serves as a model to all states and school districts working to empower parents and challenge students. I urge the president to reconsider his misguided stance on this effective and invaluable education initiative.”

Rep. McKeon stated, “The D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program gives parents a real opportunity to control the direction of their child’s education, which is unfortunately often lacking in Washington, D.C. Children should not be left ensnared in failing schools; they should have a chance at rigorous, challenging education and the hope for a brighter future. Denying dedicated students in Washington D.C. a choice in the future of their education is not just bad policy, but is morally wrong. The SOAR Act rightly restores funding to a program that is both highly popular and student and parent-driven. This is a conversation started in Washington, D.C. that should be taking place nationwide as we talk about the wider issue of education reform.  I am thrilled by today’s reauthorization passage in the House and commend Speaker John Boehner for his efforts on this critical issue.”

Earlier today, Chairman Kline spoke on the House floor in support of the SOAR Act. To view his remarks, click here.

 

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