By Eric Berschback
Recently released results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) show that Arizona’s public charter school students have posted greater scale score gains than any individual state, from 2009 to 2017. The data show that when measured as their own “state”, Arizona charter students outpaced the gains realized by their state level peers in all four major tested subjects: fourth grade reading and math, as well as eighth grade reading and math.
By Jamar Younger
Public charter schools are required to admit all students, including special education pupils.
The State Board for Charter Schools has issued guidance for charters clarifying whether schools can cap or limit admission for special education students.
In short, charter schools are required to accept all special education students and offer the same services, and make the same accommodations for those students as school districts.
The Charter Board cites information from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, and Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. The Arizona Department of Education, Exceptional Student Services can also provide resources for charters.
You can view the Charter Board’s guidance here.
The Association also created an enrollment and admissions fact sheet to address questions and misconceptions about charter school enrollment policies. Click here to view the fact sheet.
Charter school leaders and advocates from across Arizona gathered at the State Capitol Thursday to meet with their local legislators for our third annual “Charters at the Capitol.”
Our leaders attended meetings, shook hands, took photos and described the integral role of charter schools within their communities. The group also engaged in meaningful conversations regarding the advantages and challenges of operating a charter school, and what needs to be done to improve education in Arizona.