Statement from Governor David A. Paterson

ALBANY, NY (05/28/2010)(readMedia)-- "I am extremely pleased that an agreement has been reached to lift the cap on charter schools, and am confident that this legislation will greatly increase our competitiveness in the second round of Race to the Top. Agreement on this measure signals recognition by all of our State's leaders that for the sake of our children, our schools and our economy, we cannot afford to let these critical education dollars slip away.

"Race to the Top provides an unprecedented opportunity to reform our schools and challenge an educational status quo that is failing too many children. I would like to thank Senate Conference Leader John Sampson, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and Mayor Michael Bloomberg for not only acknowledging the importance of passing this legislation, but the importance of ensuring our children have access to quality education. I look forward to working with the State Education Department to create a competitive application that will secure these critical dollars for the future our children."

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