Senators Specter And Clinton Introduce The Rural Students College, Career, And Community Readiness Act Of 2007

July 13th, 2007 -- Washington, D.C. - Senators Arlen Specter (R-PA) and Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY) today introduced the Rural Students College, Career, and Community Readiness Act of 2007. This legislation will establish partnerships between non-profit entities and rural school districts to improve the educational and career outcomes of rural, low-income students. Under these partnerships, students in grades 7-12 will receive program workshops during the school day to develop career awareness and build leadership skills. Roughly one in four public schools is located in rural America. Studies have shown students attending these rural schools generally have lower educational aspirations and lower post-secondary achievement than their urban and suburban peers.

“Education is one of greatest capital assets,” Specter said. “I am pleased to join Senator Clinton in offering legislation that seeks to provide rural students with quality education and helps to develop career aspirations and opportunities.”

"The facts are daunting and present a major hurdle in improving education for students in rural communities. If our country is to successfully compete in the global economy we must ensure all students have access to an excellent education," Senator Clinton said.

The Rural Students College, Career, and Community Readiness Act will provide information to students about the opportunities for and the importance of higher education while increasing awareness of the future labor needs in their state. This legislation is needed to increase the number of rural students engaged in rigorous, college-preparatory coursework, improve their high school graduation rates, and prepare the next generation of leaders in rural communities.

Source: Senator Arlen Specter