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Non-subtle
Charter school opponents in Nelsonville, Ohio, are attempting to use zoning and land use concerns to thwart the expansion of a charter school there. Specifically, businesses with liquor permits say the launching of a new upper school proposed by Southeast Ohio Classical Academy might infringe on their ability to run a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) on nearby streets. However, one tavern owner clearly has other concerns driving his resistance, telling WOUB-FM that, “I just don’t want kids in this area to miss out on an experience such as Nelsonville-York City Schools,” by attending a “competing” school. Charming.
Update
Last week, we discussed the ongoing struggles of SR1 College Preparatory and STEM Academy in Canton, Mississippi. The state’s Charter School Authorizer Board had voted to revoke the school’s charter, citing ongoing fiscal problems and failure to make progress in correcting previous financial management concerns. This week, however, a county judge granted school leaders a temporary restraining order, citing a desire to review the “validity” of the vote. SR-1 remains in operation for the time being.
Election news – pt. 1
Dr. Robert Franklin was elected this week to be the next superintendent of public instruction in Oklahoma. He will take office in January. In a post-election interview, Dr. Franklin said he opposes the establishment of the Jewish-affiliated Ben Gamla Virtual Charter School in the state. On Thursday, members of the Statewide Charter School Board—after an executive session discussion—voted to continue their appeal of an injunction against Ben Gamla.
Election news – pt. 2
Indianapolis voters this week overwhelmingly approved an education levy in their city—63 percent to 37 percent. This is the first-ever tax issue whose proceeds will be split between district and charter schools there. Indy charters will receive nearly $50 million per year, or about $2,600 per student in new money. Said Greater Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce vice president of state government affairs: “I think what really made the difference was seeing Indianapolis Public Schools and public charter schools unify around a shared goal: doing what’s best for students.” Kudos!
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