ATLANTA – State Representative Karla Drenner (D-Avondale Estates) issued the following statement today regarding her vote on House Resolution 1162, a proposed amendment to the state constitution that would clarify the constitutional meaning of “special schools” by expressly stating that the term “special schools” includes charter schools and that the term “special schools” only refers to public schools:
“Given the success of the several charter schools located in my district and the feedback I’ve received from concerned parents who support charter schools, I chose to vote in favor of HR 1162.
“I first and foremost I support public schools and public school teachers, which is why I support amending our state constitution so that it is absolutely clear and indisputable that charter schools are in fact public schools.
“The resolution would allow voters in my district to voice their opinion at the ballot box in November as to whether or not the state should be able to authorize and fund high quality charter schools. I believe this to be a positive step toward improving public education in our state.”
Representative Karla Drenner represents the citizens of District 86, which includes portions of DeKalb County. She was elected into the House of Representatives in 2000, and currently serves on the Energy, Utilities & Telecommunications, Health & Human Services, Natural Resources & Environment, and Rules committees. She also serves on the Special Committee on Small Business Development and Job Creation.
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