education Charter Schools and Their Important Role in North San Diego County By Cameron Curry The Charter Schools Act of 1992 opened the door to innovation and choice within the space of public education. The past 28 years have proven that school success comes in varied school sizes, systems, and modalities. No charter public school is the same nor do they have the recipe for success. In greater terms, the number of charter schools in the state has eclipsed to 1,200 and California claims the most of any state. Within North San Diego County, we are pleased to have several charter schools that provide the educational choice and options that parents are seeking. Whether it is a high-tech, back-to-basics, or a school catered to students needing greater flexibility in their learning, charter schools are a place where innovation is possible. The support from local school districts has been crucial and their oversight and interest in supporting parents has manifested itself in approving high quality options. Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos, and Escondido all have approved charter public schools. Escondido, with one of the last nonunified school districts in the state, has the most charter schools for students TK-12th grade. When it comes to academics, quality curriculum, state testing, and serving students with special needs and diverse populations, charter schools offer these elements with quality and excellence. The success of charter public schools in the region has
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Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal
everything to do with individual student success, parent satisfaction, and organizational integrity. That integrity is tied to annual audits, students participating in annual state testing, and graduation rates that eclipse area schools. Charter schools across the region champion best practices and are willing to share their success with others. Often, local superintendents, educational industry professionals, school board members, and city officials visit charter school campuses to witness the innovation first hand. That open door attitude is a welcome reminder that these public schools serve our community, are open to all, and keep students at the center of everything they accomplish. Charter schools have Board’s that oversee school activities, including finances, programming, and school leadership. These Boards are aligned with state laws, operate in public, and are held accountable by parents and state law to act in a manner that protects the public’s interest. Charter public schools are held to the same standards of transparency as traditional public schools, and in some cases, the requirements are even higher. This scrutiny is something charter public schools appreciate, knowing that their charter terms of operation are given in 5-year approvals. The Charter Schools Act of 1992 established into law the elements that every charter school petition would incorporate. In the past 28 years, however, new
Winter 2020 | www.oceansidechamber.com
