Charter schools offer choice
I am a product of the public school system. This is not odd for baby-boomers like me because when we were of grade school age there were only two categories of kids who did not go public schools, Roman Catholics and kids with behavioral problems. Most of us “normal sorts” were in public schools and we were fine with it.I am no longer “fine with it. Come November, I will vote “yes” on the charter school amendment. Why? I look at the myths and the facts of education in America and see the need for options.
First myth: County schools are paid for with local property taxes. In Coweta, slightly over 40 percent of school funds comes from local property taxes, 50 percent comes from state, and 10 percent comes from federal government. That 10 percent is primarily used for special-needs students and nutrition programs. Since Georgia pays the most for our local schools, why shouldn’t the state be able to license charter schools?
Second myth: Public schools are controlled locally. For parents who actually believe this I invite you to attend a school board meeting. When issues of school districts are discussed the federal government reigns supreme.
Third myth: Charter schools always get better results: Actually, tests show charter schools don’t necessarily get better results. Some do and some don’t, but that for me is the point. What is wrong with experimentation and accountability? If a school, charter or otherwise, fails, then close it. Give American real power by giving us choice. The money to educate should follow the child. The charter school amendment gives us more choices.
Michael A. Scott, Newnan
