Abstract: Using demographic, financial, political, and performance data from 1980-2004, the authors of this paper examine the various forces in states and districts associated with the support (or lack of support) for charter schools. They find that there are several sources for the expanding charter school movement. One sizable contributor is the increase in population heterogeneity, both within states and within districts. States with growing income inequality and a rising Hispanic population were more likely to pass stronger laws. Systemically low student achievement also fuels the growth of charters. States with poor performance on the SAT and higher dropout rates were more likely to pass stronger laws. Having a highly unionized teaching force was found to reduce the likelihood that a charter law passes at the state level, but once a law was in place, highly unionized districts were more likely to have charter schools emerge within their boundaries.
Resource Type: Research/ Reports (Non Federal), Legislation/ Policy Analysis Resource Format: PDF File Target Audience: Policy Makers, Researchers Resource Topic: Legislation & Policy, Impact of Charter Schools, Effectiveness of Charter Schools, Demographics of Charter School Students
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