With all the election buzz today I have been thinking about a MA ballot issue on Charter Schools. Lucky for me, the most common question I get about the election is, “What exactly is a Charter School?” And, I love talking about schools!

A charter school is an independently run public school. That means that each school is established by a “charter” or mission. Charter schools are a great test field for educational reform. At a charter school, educators can try new curriculum, technology, or class size as long as it aligns with their charter. These schools are governed by an independent Board of Directors who answer to the state. Even though a charter school has no local school board, they must answer to state officials, that keeps the operations above the line. These schools are funded publicly through similar to how a regular public school is funded. Charter schools are funded based on enrollment. The district pays a per student stipend to the charter school to operate.

I like to think of them as bonus schools! Since I love school, I voted “Yes” for issue 2. 

When studying education I became enamored with charters. Especially the KIPP, Knowledge is Power Program and their story. Check them out here http://www.kipp.org/ The idea that a school can help break the cycle of poverty is something I believe. Teachers and schools can change the future.

If you are looking for a great non-fiction read about the origins of a charter school, and the inside scoop on a real educational change agent, pick up Born To Rise. It is my favorite motivational, teacher leader, shed a few tears, book.