Hare supports school construction bill

(May 14, 2009) Congressman Phil Hare (D-IL), a member of the House Education and Labor Committee, today voted for the 21st Century Green High-Performing Public School Facilities Act which would invest over $6 billion in school construction.

"Our students deserve to learn in safe, modern, energy efficient classrooms," Hare said. "Many schools in my district are struggling to find money to make the most basic repairs. This legislation would provide them with modest but needed assistance."

The quality of a school facility isn't just important for children's health-it's critical for their learning. A safe and healthy learning environment has been proven to improve both student achievement and teacher recruitment and retention.

The bill would also be a major boost to our struggling economy by creating hundreds of thousands of good-paying construction jobs. "I have always said that education is an investment, not an expenditure," Hare said. "By building first class schools and creating new jobs, this legislation would address several critical challenges facing my district."

Estimated amounts to be received by local schools: Sherrard, $64,000; Aledo, $55,000; Rockridge, $38,000.