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Opening Statement Hearing on Monday, September 29,
2003 Good morning. My name is Tom Osborne. I am the vice chairman of this subcommittee and I represent Nebraska’s third congressional district. On behalf of the Subcommittee on Education Reform, I would like to extend a warm welcome to everyone in the audience today. I would like to thank our distinguished panels for taking part in today’s hearing, entitled, Keeping Schools Safe - The Implementation of No Child Left Behind’s Persistently Dangerous Schools Provision. Today’s hearing will focus on an extremely important topic -- the protection and safety of America’s children. When Congress passed the bipartisan "No Child Left Behind Act" on December 13, 2001, it had the well-being of its students in mind. In order to receive funding under this Act, states are required to identify schools that are "persistently dangerous." Students who are enrolled at a school that has been identified, by the state, as being persistently dangerous, are subsequently given the option of transferring to a safe school within their local education agency. Ultimately, the requirements established by No Child Left Behind are intended to provide parents with both knowledge and options when it comes to the safety of their children. The provisions help parents feel secure that they are sending their children to safe, non-threatening environments in which their children can learn and succeed. As we consider this issue, it is important to look at this issue from a number of perspectives. We will hear about why this provision was included. We will also hear from two state school chiefs -- one from my home state of Nebraska and one from here in Colorado -- on the implementation of this provision at the state level. One of our panelists will provide a broader view of what the other states are doing to implement this provision. Finally, we will hear from a state legislator and a parent on the impact of this provision and its implementation. Again, the topic at hand is of primary importance to all of us as we seek to ensure the safety and security of our nation’s children. I look forward to hearing from our witnesses today. At this time, I yield to my distinguished colleague, Representative Musgrave, for any opening comments she might have.
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