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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Mark Cohen |
  
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Cohen bill would ease school transfers for military children
HARRISBURG, May 8 – Children of military families would have an easier time transferring among school districts in Pennsylvania and in other states under legislation that will soon be introduced by state Rep. Mark Cohen, D-Phila.
Cohen’s bill would have Pennsylvania join the Interstate Compact on Education Opportunity for Military Children. The compact, which was created by the Council of State Governments, is meant to help solve common problems military children experience in school as a result of frequent moves and deployments.
Cohen said states that join the compact agree to work collectively to help speed the transfer of transcripts, assessments and extracurricular participation.
"Military families on average move six to nine times between the time their children start kindergarten and graduate high school," Cohen said. "This compact is a very sensible idea that recognizes this fact and takes the necessary steps to make sure military children are afforded the same opportunities for educational success and extracurricular activity as children who live in the same home and school district their entire lives.
"It also would help school districts evaluate the best placement and services for their new students."
According to the CSG, Arizona, Kansas and Kentucky joined the compact in April. Seventeen other states, not including Cohen’s bill for Pennsylvania, have introduced legislation to join the compact.
Cohen said the compact also is recognized as a "best practice" by the National Governor’s Association.
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