19 Jan 2012

Iowans for Public School Options Supports Legislation Expanding School Choice

By Derek Flowers

Iowans to be offered greater choice in education

Des Moines, Iowa - Today, the Iowa Legislature will begin the process to debate the Governor's education transformation initiatives with a meeting of the subcommittee on HSB 517.  Iowans for Public School Options offers support for HSB 517 and its Senate companion, SSB 3009, which would create expanded options in education to Iowa's students.

 

With initiatives such as greater access to charter schools, online education, and innovative learning models, this legislation gives parents the ability to choose a school that is the best fit for their children.

 

"Iowa has a tradition of pride in its quality public education system.  Giving parents choice through public school options will help Iowa to once again be a leader in education and ensure every Iowa student is getting the best education available.  We support the initiatives to expand school choice found in this legislation," said Brian Kennedy, Chairman of Iowans for Public School Options.

All across the country, state Legislatures are working this spring to allow high-quality options in education to become available to parents and students in their states.  Allowing Iowa families access to these innovative models that have proven successful will continue to strengthen Iowa's public education system.

SSB 3009 and HSB 517 include initiatives to expand school choice:

•    Creates pathways for students to access online education in Iowa

•    Enables multiple authorizers for new charter schools across the state

•    Increases waiver authority allowing schools to innovate and better serve students

About Iowans for Public School Options
Iowans for Public School Options is a chapter of the National Coalition for Public School Options (NCPSO) and is an alliance of parents that supports and defends parents' rights to access the best public school options for their children. The Coalition supports the creation of public school options, including charter schools, online schools, magnet schools, open enrollment policies and other innovative education programs. Additionally, NCPSO advocates for free and equal access without restrictions to these public schools for all children. For additional information, go to www.PublicSchoolOptions.org/Iowa.

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19 Jan 2012

National School Choice week kicks off Saturday

By Ben Velderman
National School Choice Week set to kick off Saturday with a giant rally in New Orleans
By Ben Velderman
EAG Communications
NEW ORLEANS - New Orleans has always been known for its ability to throw a good party.

And these days the Big Easy is also developing a reputation as a showcase for the nation's K-12 education reform movement.
So it's seems only natural that thousands of parents, students and concerned citizens from across the country are gathering in New Orleans for Saturday's kickoff to the second annual "National School Choice Week," which runs January 22-28.
National School Choice Week (NSCW) is an umbrella group comprised of more than 300 organizations and tens of thousands of school choice supporters who join together every year "to shine a spotlight on the need for effective education options for all children," according to the group's website.
Those options include everything from "great public schools, to public charter schools, magnet schools, virtual schools, private schools, homeschooling and more," according to the site. 

Officials involved with NSCW work throughout the year to encourage lawmakers at various levels of government to maximize the number of educational options for children, therefore maximizing their opportunities for success.
The old idea of keeping students trapped in geographic school districts is no longer acceptable. More and more people are starting to understand that the "one-size-fits-all"  approach to education is outdated and ineffective.

"For too long, too many kids have been forced to attend very bad schools, or schools that aren't a good fit for them, just because those happened to be the only schools in their neighborhoods," said Kyle Olson, chief executive officer of Education Action Group and National School Choice Week. 

"What could possibly be wrong with allowing parents to determine the best school for their children, regardless of where it's located? The scope of a child's educational opportunities should not be dictated by their zip code."
New Orleans offers proof that choice works
Andrew Campanella, vice president of public affairs for NSCW, said the Big Easy is the perfect location for the NSCW launch because of its impressive record of increased achievement among students.
After Hurricane Katrina ripped the city apart in 2005, lawmakers decided that education reform was a necessary component to successfully rebuilding New Orleans. 

Chronically failing school districts have been taken over by the state. Families with students in those failed districts have been granted access to a variety of schooling options. As a result, the vast majority of New Orleans students now attend charter schools, which has led to a dramatic rise in student test scores and graduation rates. 

"New Orleans has been at the forefront  of education reform in our country," Campanella said. "It's seen tremendous growth in student achievement because of the choices that have been given to parents - everything from scholarships to virtual schools, charter schools and improved public schools."
New Orleans' public education system has undergone such a renaissance that last year, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan praised the city for having the most improved school district in the nation.
"I continue to be in awe of the sense of urgency, the sense of commitment, the entire community getting behind the schools,"  Duncan said, according to NOLA.com.
Thousands expected at kickoff celebration
Thousands of school choice supporters - who represent the full spectrum of ethnic groups, income levels and political persuasions - will participate in the kickoff event, which is being held at the Lakefront Arena, located on the campus of the University of New Orleans. 

What binds the different groups together is the shared belief that all families deserve the right to choose the best schooling option for their children, Campanella said.
The NSCW event is meant to rally supporters for the upcoming week, as well as to celebrate the school choice victories that occurred last year, of which there were quite a few.
In 2011, Maine became the 41st state to allow the creation of charter schools. Other states, such as Michigan and Florida, lifted caps on the number of charter schools allowed in their states.
Last week, a judge upheld Indiana's new voucher law that allows low- and middle-income families to use state funding to attend the public or private school of their choice. The Indiana voucher program is the most comprehensive of its kind in the nation.
The new year seems equally promising. Lawmakers in Alabama and Washington state are considering bills that would allow the creation of charter schools, and Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal is pushing for a voucher law that rivals Indiana's in scope.
After Saturday's rally, supporters will hold individual events in all 50 states and Washington D.C.
"There will be more than 320 events during the week," Campanella said. "We've tripled the number of participants that we had last year."
While National School Choice Week has a number of high-profile supporters - legendary comedian/actor Bill Cosby being the most recent recruit - the movement's success will be determined by the number of families and everyday citizens who get involved. 

To participate in one of the upcoming events around the nation, or learn more about the movement, log on to www.schoolchoiceweek.com.
"We're getting more supporters every day," Campanella said.
19 Jan 2012

Join Us Saturday!

By Brittany Marietta

Now is the time to explore educational options for the 2012-13 school year!

At Rivermont Collegiate, students are encouraged to stretch beyond their comfort zone and are part of an inspiring environment where learning is exciting.  Drop in Saturday to explore our campus, philosophy, curriculum, and programs.  No pressure - just information!

What: Rivermont Collegiate Open House

When: Saturday, January 21st - 8:30-11:00 a.m.

Rivermont Collegiate is the Quad Cities' only private, independent, nonsectarian college-prep school, serving students in preschool through grade 12.  Rivermont students come from many Quad City area communities and financial aid is available.  100% of Rivermont graduates are accepted to 4-year colleges and universities.

 

19 Jan 2012

Keystone pipeline

By Grassley Press
Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Senator Chuck Grassley commented on the President's decision today to stop the international Keystone XL pipeline project.  This project was approved in 2010 by the Canadian National Energy Board.  The Keystone pipeline would transport 830,000 barrels of crude oil a day and help to counteract both insufficient domestic oil supplies and reduce dependence on less reliable foreign sources.  It's been under review by the Obama administration for more than three years.

Senator Grassley's comment:

"President Obama's decision is stunning for how it favors extreme environmentalism over job creation and an energy partnership with a friendly neighbor, a relationship that could reduce America's dependence on volatile foreign energy sources, including Venezuela, Libya and OPEC.  His decision disregards the fact that unemployment in the United States remains at record high levels, and consumers face the possibility of $5 gas this summer.

"The reality that President Obama has flat out rejected the priorities of grass-roots Americans for job creation and energy production that's close to home means Congress needs to act.  Whether or not the U.S. approves the Keystone pipeline project, the oil will be produced, and if it doesn't come here, China likely will get it.  So, it's impossible to see how President Obama could deny that the Keystone pipeline project is in the national interest."

17 Jan 2012

Andrea Solomonson of Orion Named to University of Evansville Dean's List

By readMedia

EVANSVILLE, IN (01/17/2012)(readMedia)-- The University of Evansville is proud to announce that Andrea Solomonson of Orion has achieved a place on the Dean's List for academic achievements during the Fall Semester 2011. Solomonson is majoring in Management.

To make the Dean's List, a student at UE must earn at least a 3.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale.

"At the University of Evansville, students experience a rigorous curriculum built on exposure to great ideas, timeless themes, significant questions, and multiple perspectives," said UE President Thomas A. Kazee. "Earning a place on the Dean's List shows a strong commitment to academic achievement, and students such as Andrea Solomonson and their families should be incredibly proud of this accomplishment."

17 Jan 2012

Governor Quinn Opens $18 Million "Building One" on Western Illinois University Riverfront Campus and Announces New Funding

By Nafia Khan

Hundreds More Jobs to Result from Administration's Announcement of $38 Million in Capital Funding for Phase II of Moline Campus Expansion

MOLINE - January 17, 2012. Governor Pat Quinn today joined local officials at Western Illinois University (WIU) to open the $18.4 million "Building One" at the school's Riverfront Campus in Moline, a facility that will house the university's undergraduate programs in the Quad Cities. In his third visit to the campus since the project was announced, Governor Quinn also announced the release of an additional $38 million in state capital funds for the next phase of the Moline campus expansion that will create hundreds of jobs and triple university enrollment when complete. The Governor stood alongside WIU President Jack Thomas to open the new building and announce additional funding.

"Investing in higher education is one of the best investments a state can make because jobs follow brainpower," Governor Quinn said. "The Riverfront Campus will help create jobs now and help students and communities by creating economic and job opportunities for generations to come."

The $18.4 million "Building One" project transformed the former John Deere Technical Center, donated to WIU by the John Deere Corporation, into the new Riverfront Campus. The two-story, 60,300-square-foot energy-efficient and environmentally friendly building will be submitted for a LEED Silver designation and includes new classrooms, instructional and computer laboratories, offices, faculty and student lounges, and a reception and work area. The project was supported by a $12.5 million investment from Governor Quinn's Illinois Jobs Now! capital program and created approximately 125 construction jobs. It was administered by the Capital Development Board, which oversees state-funded, non-road construction projects.

Governor Quinn's announcement today of $38 million in new construction funding will support Phase II of the Riverfront Campus project, which includes a new classroom and administrative building. This expansion is expected to create more than 260 construction jobs. Bidding is scheduled for June 2012 with completion by mid-2014.

Despite having a regional population of more than 350,000 people, WIU-Quad Cities is the only public university in northwestern Illinois. The expansion is expected to generate a construction impact in excess of $125 million and support more than 100 permanent new jobs at WIU-Quad Cities.

"We are the only public university in the Quad Cities, and today's announcement for Phase II of the Riverfront Campus means expanded public higher education opportunities for the residents of the region," said WIU President Jack Thomas. "We remain committed to providing outstanding educational experience to the Quad Cities and we are excited about the prospect of moving forward with Phase 2 of the Riverfront Campus."

According to the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs, the annual economic impact of WIU-Quad Cities with a current enrollment of 1,360 students and 100 faculty and staff is over $10 million annually. A new 3,000-student, three-building campus will raise that value to more than $50 million annually and will double the number of college graduates to 500 annually.

Governor Quinn's Illinois Jobs Now! program includes $1.5 billion for higher education, including $788 million for public universities and $400 million for community colleges. The overall $30 billion program is expected to create 439,000 construction jobs.

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17 Jan 2012

2012 Robert D. Blue Scholarship Application Available Online

By Karen Austin

DES MOINES, IA (01/17/2012)(readMedia)-- State Treasurer Michael Fitzgerald reminds Iowa students that the application for the 2012 Robert D. Blue Scholarship is available online at www.rdblue.org. All Iowa residents who plan to attend college in Iowa for the 2012-2013 school year are eligible to apply.

"Over the years we've helped hundreds of Iowa students meet their college costs with this scholarship," Fitzgerald stated. "Awards are based on financial need, academic achievements, written recommendations and an original essay. Last year, seven outstanding students representing seven counties were chosen to receive awards. Each of the recipients went on to attend a different Iowa college or university."

The Iowa Centennial Memorial Foundation awards the Robert D. Blue Scholarship to Iowa students attending college in Iowa. Governor Blue created the Foundation in 1949 to commemorate the one hundredth anniversary of Iowa's acceptance into the union. At that time, a scholarship fund was established to encourage the youth of the state to attend Iowa's fine colleges and universities. In 1990, the Foundation officially named the scholarship to honor the late Governor Blue.

Robert D. Blue Scholarship applications are only accepted online through May 10 at www.rdblue.org. The winners will be announced during the summer. Those who would like more information on the Robert D. Blue Scholarship should visit the website, or call the treasurer's office at (515) 242-5270.

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13 Jan 2012

Mackenzie Oak Selected as Hall Director at Illinois College

By Elizabeth Findley

JACKSONVILLE, IL (01/12/2012)(readMedia)-- Mackenzie Oak of Taylor Ridge has been chosen to serve on the residence life staff at Illinois College for the 2012 academic year.

Oak, is the daughter of Kevin and Cynthia Oak of Taylor Ridge. She is a graduate of Rockridge High School.

Hall directors, or HD's, serve the college in many capacities: implementing, developing and operating the Residential Life program within their building, and serving as role models for their staff and students. HD's are responsible for creating an environment that promotes positive academic and social experiences.

Founded in 1829, Illinois College is a residential liberal arts college fostering academic excellence rooted in opportunities for experiential learning while preparing students for lifelong success.

13 Jan 2012

Local students make Deans' List for fall semester 2011

By readMedia

ROMEOVILLE, IL (01/11/2012)(readMedia)-- Lewis University announces Dean's List honorees.

Brett Busch is a resident of East Moline, Ill.

Bryce Lough is a resident of Orion, Ill.

These students were among those honored on the Lewis University Deans' List for fall semester 2011.

To be eligible for this honor, students must have completed a minimum of 12 semester hours of credit with a grade point average of 3.25 out of a possible 4.0.  Lewis University is a Catholic university offering distinctive undergraduate and graduate programs to nearly 6,500 traditional and adult students. Lewis offers multiple campus locations, online degree programs, and a variety of formats that provide accessibility and convenience to a growing student population. Sponsored by the De La Salle Christian Brothers, Lewis prepares intellectually engaged, ethically grounded, globally aware, and socially responsible graduates. The ninth largest private not-for-profit university in Illinois, Lewis has been nationally recognized by The Princeton Review and U.S. News & World Report. Visit http://www.lewisu.edu for further information.

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MILWAUKEE, WI (01/11/2012)(readMedia)-- The following local students have been named to the Dean's List for the fall 2011 semester at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wis:

Mikhaila Norton of Bettendorf, IA. Norton is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting.

Alexa Hackfort of Bettendorf, IA. Hackfort is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations.

Thomas Grabow of Davenport, IA. Grabow is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting.

Matthew Noe of Rock Island, IL. Noe is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance.

Bradley Whan of Coal Valley, IL. Whan is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical & Electronic Engineering.

Marquette University is a Catholic, Jesuit university that draws its more than 11,500 students from all 50 states and more than 75 different countries. In addition to its nationally recognized academic programs, Marquette is known for its service learning programs and internships as students are challenged to use what they learn to make a difference in the world. Find out more about Marquette at marquette.edu.

10 Jan 2012

Treasurer Fitzgerald Reminds Teachers to Register for Free Pencils

By Rick Martin

Teachers must submit their requests for pencils before the April 1st deadline

DES MOINES, IA (01/10/2012)(readMedia)-- Treasurer Michael L. Fitzgerald wants every second and third grade teacher in the state to take advantage of the free pencils being offered through Prepare for the Basics program. This no-cost program, which provides pencils for students to use during the Iowa Assessment Test, supplied over 12,800 students with pencils during the 2010-11 school year. "Any teacher interested in participating in the program has until April 1st to submit their requests," stated Fitzgerald. "I really hope all teachers take advantage of this program. It is a small gesture of appreciation for all they do."

The Prepare for the Basics program also provides information to families about College Savings Iowa, the state's 529 plan that is designed to give them an affordable way to save money for college. "Families who begin saving early are better prepared to meet the educational needs of their children. Any little bit that can be saved now will offset what has to be borrowed in the future," Fitzgerald said.

College Savings Iowa lets anyone - parents, grandparents, friends and relatives - invest for college on behalf of a child. Iowa taxpayers can deduct up to $2,975 in contributions per beneficiary account from their adjusted gross income in 2012* Investors do not need to be a state resident and can withdraw their investment tax-free to pay for qualified higher education expenses including tuition, books, supplies and room and board at any eligible college, university, community college or accredited technical training school in the United States or abroad.** For more information about College Savings Iowa, go to www.collegesavingsiowa.com or call 1-888-672-9116.

Teachers who would like to take part in the Prepare for the Basics program can register online by visiting www.treasurer.state.ia.us and clicking on the financial literacy tab. Materials should be requested at least two weeks prior to testing to ensure timely arrival and will be delivered directly to the participating schools. Supplies are limited, so early registration is advised.

* Adjusted annually for inflation. If withdrawals are not qualified, the deductions must be added back to Iowa taxable income.

** Earnings on non-qualified withdrawals may be subject to federal income tax and a 10% federal penalty tax on the earnings, as well as state and local income taxes. The availability of tax or other benefits may be contingent on meeting other requirements.

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Investment returns are not guaranteed and you could lose money by investing in the plan. Participants assume all investment risks as well as responsibility for any federal and state tax consequences. If you are not an Iowa taxpayer, consider before investing whether your or the designated beneficiary's home state offers any state tax or other benefits that are only available for investments in such state's qualified tuition program.

For more information about the College Savings Iowa 529 Plan, call 888-672-9116 or visit www.collegesavingsiowa.com to obtain a Program Description. Investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other important information are included in the Program Description; read and consider it carefully before investing.

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