School Choice Week

WHEREAS, every student in Alabama should have the right to the highest-quality schools possible; and

WHEREAS, citizens across Alabama agree that improving the quality of education in Alabama and expanding access to highly effective schools is an issue of importance to our state’s leaders; and

WHEREAS, Alabama recognizes the critical role that an effective and accountable system of education plays in preparing all students in Alabama to be successful adults in a global economy; and

WHEREAS, Alabama has a multitude of high-quality public schools and non-public schools; and

WHEREAS, educational variety not only helps to diversify our economy, but also enhances the vibrancy of our state; and

WHEREAS, Alabama has many high-quality teaching professionals in public and private schools across Alabama who are committed to educating children; and

WHEREAS, the vital cause of education reform is one that transcends ideology and political party affiliation; and

WHEREAS, School Choice Week is a nationally celebrated event and during this week we join with millions of parents, educators, schools and organizations around the country to raise awareness of the need for effective educational options that challenge and motivate all our students to succeed:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim the week of January 27 through February 2, 2013, as

School Choice Week

in the state of the Alabama.