The Philanthropy Roundtable
January 2004
Since 1992, the number of charter schools has exploded to around 2,700, serving more than 650,000 students. Much of this growth is attributable to the energy and drive of passionate and committed parents, teachers, and community leaders, and to a handful of committed philanthropists. This report, written by Public Impact and published by the Philanthropy Roundtable, is an account of the funders' role and a set of recommendations for other donors keen to advance the charter movement. It synthesizes the experiences and best practices of philanthropists to identify four strategic priorities:
" Building a robust supply of high-quality new schools by expanding successful, well-managed brands (KIPP, Aspire Public Schools, etc.), and supporting "enablers" (BAEO, National Council of La Raza, and quality charter incubators).
" Addressing critical operational challenges such as financing facilities, obtaining "back office" services, special education services, etc.
" Improving charter school quality controls through strong and effective charter school sponsors (those organizations that give birth to, and provide oversight of, charter schools).
" Forging charter-friendly public policies.
This report makes clear that the charter school movement is at a crossroads. Either it and its supporters will figure out how to replicate quality schools or it will remain fragmented and marginal. Academic success will make it easier for politicians to back the spread of charter schools. Conversely, a multitude of faltering charter schools with weak academic achievement will cripple, even kill the movement. This report shows clearly how savvy donors can help bring about the happier outcome. Check it out at http://www.philanthropyroundtable.org/guidebooks.html.
