PHILADELPHIA PA, February 13, 2007 – Congressman Chaka Fattah (D-PA) issued the following statement today in support of Paul Vallas, chief executive officer of the School District of Philadelphia:

“I join Governor Rendell in expressing complete support for Paul Vallas. I believe Vallas must continue his visionary leadership for the School District of Philadelphia.

“The School District’s extraordinary reform effort needs the continuity of leadership provided by CEO Vallas, Chairman James Nevels and the School Reform Commission.

“The School District of Philadelphia continues to progress along the hard road to quality education and opportunity for all of our city’s children, even as the policy makers take on the challenge of leveling a playing field tilted against our young people.”