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This Discussion is closed.
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| Using NCLB to mold charter schools to district image |
6/8/04 11:08 AM |
| Author:
Hal Ohnmeis
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Margaret;
No PA does not use only standardized test scores to determine 'AYP'. Unfortunately, PA is considering passing legislation that will automatically close any charter school that fails to meet AYP in any area for 2 consecutive years. This includes component parts to AYP. So, for example, if a charter school fails to meet the target for standardized test scores one year and attendance (as under NCLB) the next year, the charter school will be closed. We are trying to rescind this provision at this time, but we are seeing a pattern that the opponents of charter schools are using NCLB to strangle or kill charter schools.
What we are seeing here in PA in the last few years is an attempt to make charter schools like school districts. We have been told that many times over the last 2 years. As that happens it makes it difficult for a charter school to stay true to its original mission and vision. Actually, I am all for accountability and am not trying to make excuses for failures. I've always said that charter schools operate much like an entrepreneurial model and the only thing keeping parents at a charter school is the goodwill generated by delivering what you say you will deliver. We have just found it is getting more and more difficult to deliver what was originally promised due to what appears to be an attempt to re-mold charter schools in the images of school districts (at least here in PA.)
Posted as a reply to:
response to Harold by Margaret Roush-Meier
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