Sensible reforms for the state's charters

Many state lawmakers have recognized a growing need for significant changes to Pennsylvania's charter school laws. The Pennsylvania Coalition of Public Charter Schools supports the sensible charter school reforms outlined in Gov. Corbett's education plan, which was unveiled last week.

The proposed reforms, which reflect bills in the state Senate and House, are a tremendous step in the right direction. They would ensure more transparency, consistency, and accountability in charter schools. They would also help high-quality charter schools grow and develop.

When the law governing Pennsylvania's charter schools was first established, in 1997, charter schools were widely regarded as an experiment. Now, almost 15 years later, more than 90,000 students are enrolled in charter schools across the commonwealth. These schools have become an integral part of Pennsylvania's education system.

But while the state's charter schools have grown, the laws governing them have not grown with them. That has created significant problems, many of which would be addressed under the recently proposed reforms.

The state's families have a right to a choice of public schools, but many will be denied that right without greater access to high-quality charter schools. The demand for public school choices in Pennsylvania well exceeds the supply. More than 30,000 families remain on charter school waiting lists throughout the commonwealth, all seeking what they believe to be the best public education option for their children.

Many of the schools that these students attend are failing to provide the education they deserve. Charter schools have proven to be a viable alternative to such schools because of their flexibility, ability to innovate, and the personalized attention they provide.

By instituting multiple charter authorizers, the recently proposed reforms would remove many of the roadblocks that arise from the state's current system of charter school authorization. Under the new legislation, more high-quality charters would likely be approved, increasing both the number of charter schools and the number of students able to attend them.

By encouraging public school choice and supporting charter schools, the governor's education plan sends a clear message that education must be about the best interests of children. As Corbett said, "We can't guarantee their success, but we owe all students a fighting chance. We're talking about our children, and we owe it to them to reform the system."