West OC Times

Rep. Michelle Steel has introduced legislation aimed at expanding federal support for charter school facilities, with the goal of increasing quality education opportunities for all students, regardless of their background.

The Equitable Access to School Facilities Act proposes grants to states to fund charter school facilities and provides increased flexibility for charter schools to access public property. The grant funds would be sourced from the Federal Charter Schools Program and could be used for new facilities, renovations, or ongoing facility costs.

"A good education can be the silver bullet to putting young people on a path to success in school and life. Charter schools can provide students with a better avenue to succeed through more specialized curriculum tailored to fit unique educational needs," said Rep. Michelle Steel. "As a member of the House Education and Workforce Committee, I’m excited to push forward this legislation and help every student in America obtain a quality education."

The bill, H.R. 9853, has been assigned to the House Education and Workforce Committee.

"All public school students have the right to learn in a safe, clean, and functional environment. Charter school leaders—often community leaders, teachers, and parents that start schools to serve their community with needed high-quality education options—have to jump over serious hurdles to provide their students with an adequate school building. The Equitable Access to School Facilities Act will help level the playing field and remove financial barriers for public charter schools to create vibrant and safe buildings for their students and families. The National Alliance thanks Congresswoman Steel for her steadfast support for public education and public charter schools," said Starlee Coleman, President and CEO of the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools.