Lieberman Calls on President, Education Secretary to Accept New Students Promised DC Opportunity Scholarship Slot

WASHINGTON - Today Senator Lieberman again called on President Obama and Education Secretary Arne Duncan to ensure that the 216 children seeking to escape failing public schools in the District of Columbia will have the chance to receive the education they were originally promised. These students were assured a voucher under the DC Opportunity Scholarship Program (OSP) which would enable them to attend a participating private school of their choice, only to have that promise withdrawn pursuant to a decision made by Secretary Duncan.

"These children want and deserve a chance to receive a better education," Senator Lieberman said. "It is my hope and belief that Congress will have the wisdom to support and extend the OSP program which has provided a lifeline to many low income families in the District while District officials strive to improve the District's public schools."

"While Congress debates legislation to continue the OSP, it is particularly cruel to deny this opportunity to those 216 children who were promised this chance," Lieberman continued. "With District schools opening their doors beginning next week, I call on Secretary Duncan to reverse his decision and send these kids on the path to success."