Statement by Edward J. McElroy, President, American Federation of Teachers, on Introduction of New Orleans RENEWAAL Bill

Rep. George Miller (D-Calf.) today introduced H.R. 1372, which provides funds for teacher recruitment and retention in the Gulf region.

Congress has taken an important step to help rebuild the public school systems in areas devastated by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. In doing so, it lays the groundwork for establishing a collaborative process for teachers, their unions, parents and other stakeholders to be a part of that revitalization.

Rep. George Miller's bill, the Revitalizing New Orleans by Attracting America’s Leaders Act of 2007 (RENEWAAL), provides important financial incentives to attract and retain teachers, paraprofessionals and other school leaders who are committed to working in Gulf Coast public schools and colleges.  The bill also includes assurances that schools in the affected areas will be open to all eligible students and that all applicable civil rights protections will be enforced.  Finally, Rep. Miller's legislation opens the door for union members to have a voice in designing a system that works for students and teachers.

The AFT commends Chairman Miller for his leadership on this bill and looks forward to working with lawmakers, teachers, parents, administrators and all other interested parties to ensure that educating the children of the Gulf region remains the ultimate goal of this effort.  

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