The Privatization
Movement
An Argument for School Choice
CHARTER SCHOOLS
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Independent, public schools
“A 'charter school' means a public, nonsectarian, nonreligious,
nonhome-based, nonprofit corporation forming a school which
operates within a public school district, but is accountable to the
local school board of trustees of that district, which grants its
charter.”
Charter granted by local, state, or
national government
Usually have a specific “focus”
Outcome based
Varying research on effectiveness
http://www.myscschools.com/offices/ssys/alternative_education/charter_schools/lawnew.htm
CHARTER SCHOOLS
Q: Why do we have charter schools?
A: To promote school choice as well as
explore innovative, creative methods
of teaching and learning.
CHARTER SCHOOLS
Q: Are charter schools part of the school
system?
A: Yes. Charter schools are considered
public schools and are part of the local
district in terms of the state law and state
constitution.
-Health, Safety, Disability
-Minimum Attendance
-Up to 25% of teachers can be noncertified
CHARTER SCHOOLS
Q: How are students admitted?
A: In South Carolina, the student
population of a charter school must
be representative of the district or
target population. If there are more
applicants than space, a drawing will
be held.
CHARTER SCHOOLS
Q: How are charter schools started?
A: Three steps:
1. Organize a nonprofit charter school proposal.
2. Form a charter committee (including teachers).
3. Submit written proposal to local district school board.
CHARTER SCHOOLS
Q: Do students in charter schools have
to take standardized tests?
A: Yes – at least in most states
including South Carolina.
FOR-PROFIT SCHOOLS
Two Types:
1. School that operates as a business and
attempts to make a profit from its
educational operation. The school receives a
fee for each student it enrolls. (Edison Schools)
2. Educational management organization
(EMO) that contracts with school districts
and charter schools to operate public
schools. (Education Alternatives, Inc.)
http://www.ncspe.org/publications_files/For-Profit%20Schools-FAQ.pdf
FOR-PROFIT SCHOOLS
Advantages
Disadvantages
• Greater Efficiency
• Lack of Knowledge
• Increased Competition
• Misguided Focus
• Responsive to
“Clientele”
• Eliminated Services
• Encourages Innovation
and Creativity
• Added Costs
National Center for the Study of Privatization in Education
http://www.ncspe.org/publications_files/For-Profit%20Schools-FAQ.pdf
Your Thoughts…
What impact do you think charter schools
and for-profit schools have on traditional
public education?
Where do you see the trends in school
choice moving in the next decade?
Can you see yourself ever becoming
involved in starting a charter school?
Why or Why not?