[Durham INC] Charter School Bill

[John Haws]

Regarding Melissa Rooney's recent posts and call to action.... 

The issue with charter schools is very complicated and I don't think Melissa presents a clear, fair, or objective picture. Charter schools certainly are not receiving preferential treatment, and they receive far less funding than district schools, and currently receive no support for lunches or transportation.

I myself am undecided on this issue, but I do know that there are numerous charter schools throughout the state accomplishing amazing things with all populations. Visit Maureen Joy or KIPP Gaston College Prep for example. I also agree that we absolutely cannot forsake our district schools, and I worry about too heavy a reliance on charters.

I certainly don't want to rehash the BCR debate/flame war many of us probably read and participated in, but there is a legitimate debate to be had about charter schools (with the exception of a few commentators with personal agendas, a very sound debate occurred on BCR). Melissa's commentary and call to action does not tell the whole story. 

At the heart of her posting, though, is something we all agree on: if public education is important to us, we should read the bill, talk to educators and parents, and in general educate ourselves on this topic.

- John