Today?s Charlotte Observer published my editorial on removing the cap on charter schools. Later this morning I received this email:
‘Your article states the following: “In my view it is time to remove the cap on North Carolina charter schools… these public schools provide….”You perceive charter schools to be “public” schools. I am confused. Are they funded by local, state, or federal taxes? Who decides which children can attend?’
Yes, charter schools are public school, and local, state and federal taxes pay for them! The best part is the parent gets to decide if they want to attend. This email shows why we need to constantly keep the dialogue front and center on charter schools and their benefits.
Rep. Thom Tillis from Mecklenburg changed his bill (HB 30) from raising the cap on charter schools to a ?Study Performance of Charter Schools” bill. While we have plenty of studies, he felt this was the only way to keep the bill ?alive? for the short session next year.
The general public needs to know how these schools are a win-win not only families wanting options, but also the county taxpayer. Charter schools must pay for facilities from their operations budget.
Think about this when school boards ask you to vote for facility bond packages, while at the same time lobbying to stop the growth of charters! The educational establishment can?t have it both ways ? wanting more of your money to build larger facilities while opposing any movement allowing families educational options. Get the word out!
