States vary widely on how they govern charter schools, in everything from how many schools can operate in a state to how much leeway they have in meeting regulations that govern traditional district-run schools, according to new federal data.
The federal Education Department’s State Education Reformswebsite on Wednesday released a variety of new information on state approaches to charters, as well as accountability systems, college readiness, and other measures. The data show nearly all states lay out charter schools’ responsibilities for special education, but fewer than half put a limit on how many total charters can operate.
While more than half of states required charter schools to use certified teachers, they often differed in the specifics. For example, Illinois requires all of a school’s teachers to be certified at some charter schools, but only some teachers to be certified at other charter schools. And in Idaho and Colorado, some charter school teachers can apply for waivers to certification.
Related stories:
- States Give Short Shrift to School Choice Option in ESSA Plans
- Growth of Charter Schools Is Slowing Down. Here’s What’s Behind the Trend
- Charter Schools May Come to Puerto Rico, But Don’t Expect Another New Orleans