This is National Charter Schools Week

National Charter Schools Week is this week. There are more than 1.2 million students in charter schools across the nation. Only ten states don't have a charter schools law. This week Patricia Chlouber, Regional Representative for the U.S. Secretary of Education will be visiting some Colorado charter schools and presenting the school with a proclamation signed by the President.

Here's a clip from President George W. Bush's proclamation:

Education is the cornerstone of a hopeful tomorrow. During National Charter
Schools Week, we highlight the contributions of charter schools to ensuring that
our Nation's future leaders have the skills and knowledge necessary for a
lifetime of achievement.

Charter schools are educational alternatives that empower families with additional choices for their children. By providing flexibility to educators while insisting on results, charter schools are helping foster a culture of educational innovation, accountability, and excellence. Charter schools also encourage parental involvement and help contribute to the national effort to close the achievement gap.

The No Child Left Behind Act has played a central role in America's efforts to improve our public schools and expand the opportunities available to our children. In 2007, American students reached record achievement levels on reading and math tests, and the achievement gap is beginning to close. Charter schools have been an important part of this success. National Charter Schools Week is an opportunity to recognize the strength, vitality, and excellence of outstanding schools.