FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 25, 2007

Contact:  Rep. Hugh Floyd, 404-656-0314 or hughfloyd@mindspring.com

 

Rep. Floyd named to education study panel

 

House Speaker Glenn Richardson has appointed state Rep. Hugh Floyd (D-Norcross) to serve on the Joint Study Committee on Continuing Education and Collegiate Sports Programs for Students with Disabilities.

 

During the course of the year, the committee shall undertake a study of what alternatives are open to the General Assembly to identify and create opportunities for student athletes with disabilities at the collegiate level and explore the development of pilot programs, recruitment of athletes, and nonprofit and private sector support for different collegiate programs. The committee shall also explore current high school, community, and collegiate sports programs and facilities.

 

According to the Georgia Department of Education's 2005-06 Report Card, 12 percent or approximately 10,300 of the 86,065 students enrolled in grade 12 have a disability such as a physical disability.  Coupled with the disabled population rising each year due to war-injured veterans returning from Iraq and elsewhere and other health risk factors, the need for further expanding educational and athletic opportunities is essential.

 

The Georgia General Assembly agrees that continuing education, therapeutic, and organized sports programs for individuals with special needs provide our youth with an opportunity to represent their state and country in sporting events, serve as role models, and obtain postsecondary education. 

 

“I am honored and privileged to serve on this committee and look forward to working with my colleagues to develop policy recommendations that serve the best interest of Georgians,” stated Rep. Floyd after learning of his appointment. 

 

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