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Case dismissed
It’s hard to say why this particular bit of news has not made a bigger splash here in Ohio, but we definitely applaud Gongwer for covering it: A judge this week dismissed the lawsuit challenging the transfer of a majority of K-12 education governance from the State Board of Education to the Department of Education and Workforce. She did so not only because she determined the plaintiffs lacked standing to bring the suit in the first place, but also “because the ability to define the powers and duties of the State Board of Education is expressly granted to the General Assembly by the plain language of Article VI, Section 4.” In other words, they would have lost anyway if the suit proceeded.
From graduation…
Let’s salute some members of the Class of 2024. First up, the valedictorian and salutatorian for Ohio Connections Academy this year are twin siblings from Cleveland, David and Delicia Pellot. They have high praise for OCA and all that it has helped them accomplish—including associate’s degrees for both of them via College Credit Plus—despite pandemic-era disruptions to education. “The changes we’ve experienced have made us strong and courageous,” said David. “Change is not only what makes us human, but it’s what makes us better people.” Awesome! Next, we applaud Ashley Ramos-Iglesias, who will soon graduate from Commonwealth High School in Charlotte, North Carolina. Ashley has overcome much hardship and uncertainty in her life, but credits Commonwealth for giving her a solid base of support, help in transferring credits from previous schools, providing access to the advanced courses she knew she could handle if given the chance, and much more. She tells her inspiring story in this piece as she prepares to get her high school diploma—the first in her family to do so—along with earning her certified nursing assistant certification. Look out, world!
…to college…
Indiana University Indianapolis last week announced it will expand its automatic admissions program to admit qualifying students in all charter high schools in the Indianapolis Public Schools Innovation Network. The initial program, which covered four district high schools only, was launched back in September and gives automatic admission to seniors with a grade point average of at least 3.0. The expansion includes eight charter high schools in Indy, meaning that all of their eligible grads will get immediate, no-application-required acceptance into the school. Freshmen admitted through the program will also receive access to career and advising services on campus.
…and into the working world
Tony Roberts, president and CEO of the Georgia Charter Schools Association, published an op-ed in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution this week where he lauds his home state for its strong business environment and looks forward to the future of fast-growing tech industry jobs. He also says that “public charter schools are playing a crucial role in preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow.” Not only are Georgia charters preparing students to acquire in-demand skills, they are also outperforming traditional district schools, and are experiencing high public popularity, according to survey data.
A boost for Texas teachers
Leaders of IDEA Public Schools in Texas this week announced that they are committing over $20 million to increase teacher and staff compensation. Not only will full-time staff see a boost in pay based on years of service, funds will go toward bolstering the network’s Teacher Career Pathway Program for new teachers as well.
Important webinar next week
You’re invited to join the National Charter Schools Institute for a webinar on Tuesday, June 4, at 2:00 pm ET. Educating the Whole Child: Transforming Educational Journeys at Every Level will discuss how the Colorado Charter School Institute and New Legacy Charter School are changing their students’ lives and education with wraparound support. More details and free registration can be found here.
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