FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 16, 2011

Statement from National Coalition for Public School Options (NCPSO) President Briana LeClaire on the passing of the National Defense Authorization Act

Arlington, Va. - On Thursday, Congress passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), H.R. 1540, a bill enabling online public school students equal status to qualify for recruitment and enlistment in the armed forces.

"Because of an outdated military recruitment policy high school graduates of online public schools wishing to enlist in the military were often denied entrance even though they had earned a diploma equivalent to other public schools. Thanks to the tireless efforts of public school options advocates such as the National Coalition for Public School Options (NCPSO), state parent groups, the International Association for K-12 Online Learning (iNACOL), the National Association of Public Charter Schools (NAPCS), and online learning providers K12 Inc. and Connections Education, Congress passed a bill enabling online public school students equal status when qualifying for recruitment and enlistment in the armed forces. We are also very thankful for the tremendous efforts of the following Members of Congress who worked to ensure this important provision was included in the NDAA bill, Congressmen Duncan Hunter, John Kline, Rob Andrews, Joe Wilson and Jared Polis as well as Senators Patty Murray, Mark Udall, John McCain and Jim Webb. We look forward to the President's prompt signature to make this approved bill standing law so that all capable and willing men and women can serve their country proudly." 

Visit the NCPSO website at www.publicschooloptions.org 

The National Coalition for Public School Options is an alliance of parents that supports and defends parents' rights to access the best public school options for their children. The Coalition supports the creation of public school options, including charter schools, online schools, magnet schools, open enrollment policies and other innovative education programs. Additionally, advocating for free and equal access without restrictions to these public schools for all children.

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