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Clearinghouse on Educational Policy and Management
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| College of Education · University of Oregon |
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Trends and Issues: School Choice
Laws and Court CasesJournal ArticlesEJ604245 SP528262The Charter Challenge. Author: Hanson-Harding, Brian Availability: Journal Citation: Instructor, v109 n6 p44-46 Mar 2000 Publication Date: March 2000 ISSN: 1049-5851 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Descriptive (141) Journal Announcement: CIJSEP2000 Abstract: Describes the advantages of charter schools, which are started by individuals or groups in the community and can set their own educational agendas and goals. More states are passing or expanding charter school laws every year. Benefits include autonomy, site-based management, increased parental involvement, and increased teacher control. Accountability can be a potential problem that accompanies autonomy. (SM) Descriptors: Accountability; *Charter Schools; Educational Improvement; Educational Quality; Elementary Secondary Education; *Institutional Autonomy; Nontraditional Education; *Professional Autonomy; Teacher Role Target Audience: Practitioners; Teachers EJ596425 UD521837 Charter Schools and The Law: Emerging Issues. Author: Russo, Charles J.; Massucci, Joseph D. Availability: Journal Citation: Education and Urban Society, v31 n4 p489-98 Aug 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 0013-1245 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Descriptive (141) Journal Announcement: CIJMAY2000 Abstract: Examines the legal issues that may have impacts on charter schools. Considers the results of a study of the impact of charter school laws on urban schools (E. Rofes, 1998). Questions whether charter schools are public institutions and examines the key constitutional issues they face. Also reflects on labor issues and dealing with teachers' unions. (SLD) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; Constitutional Law; Elementary Secondary Education; Federal Legislation; *Federal Regulation; Labor Relations; *Legal Problems; *School Law; *State Legislation; Unions; *Urban Schools Descriptive Terms: Theme issue titled "Charter Schools and Urban Education." EJ596424 UD521836 North Carolina's Charter School Law: Flexibility versus Accountability. Author: Brown, Frank Availability: Journal Citation: Education and Urban Society, v31 n4 p465-88 Aug 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 0013-1245 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJMAY2000 Abstract: Examines the flexibility and accountability standards of the North Carolina charter school laws compared with the charter school legislation of Arizona and California. North Carolina's charter school legislation seems to have the flexibility charter school advocates would wish, with the necessary accountability requirements. (SLD) Descriptors: *Accountability; *Charter Schools; Educational Administration; Educational Change; Elementary Secondary Education; Nontraditional Education; *School Restructuring; *State Legislation Identifiers: Arizona; California; *North Carolina Descriptive Terms: Theme issue titled "Charter Schools and Urban Education." EJ591146 EA536233 North Carolina's Flexible Charter School Law: Is Too Much Flexibility Good for Charter Schools? Author: Brown, Frank Availability: Journal Citation: School Business Affairs, v65 n8 p20-26 Aug 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 0036-651X Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJMAR2000 Abstract: North Carolina charter schools are operated by private, nonprofit corporations with federal, tax-exempt status and multicharter licenses. The application process is easy, the political climate under Governor Jim Hunt is progressive, and public employees are not unionized. On balance, the system seems both flexible and accountable to taxpayers. (MLH) Descriptors: *Accountability; *Charter Schools; Elementary Secondary Education; *School Choice; School Organization; *State Legislation; Unions Identifiers: *North Carolina; Rules and Regulations EJ573477 EA535048 The Thinking Behind Arizona's Charter Movement. Author: Garn, Gregg Availability: Journal Citation: Educational Leadership, v55 n2 p48-50 Oct 1998 Publication Date: 1998 ISSN: 0013-1784 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Descriptive (141) Journal Announcement: CIJJUN1999 Abstract: Arizona's "exemplary" charter-school legislation illustrates how three underlying ideologies (antibureaucracy, market-based education, and teacher professionalism) play out in practical terms. Although Arizona charter schools are achieving stability via independent financial status and real-time funding, many have monitoring difficulties, budgeting discrepancies, and a tendency to treat teachers like low-wage workers. (MLH) Descriptors: *Accountability; Budgeting; Bureaucracy; *Charter Schools; *Competition; *Educational Policy; Elementary Secondary Education; Program Implementation; School Choice; *State Legislation; Teaching (Occupation) Identifiers: Arizona; *Professionalization of Teaching EJ570117 EA534850 Are Charter Schools Sufficiently Public To Receive Public Funds?: An Analysis of "Council of Organizations about Parochiaid v. Governor." Author: Green, Preston C., III; McCall, Darryl Availability: Journal Citation: International Journal of Educational Reform, v7 n3 p232-42 Jul 1998 Publication Date: 1998 ISSN: 1056-7879 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Legal/Legislative/Regulatory materials (090); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJAPR1999 Abstract: If a charter-school act permits too much freedom from state regulations, it may create private schools ineligible for state funding. In "Council of Organizations about Parochiaid v. Governor," the Michigan courts ruled on levels of state control necessary for charter schools to be considered public. At least 13 states would fail the Michigan trial court's test. (40 references) (MLH) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; *Court Litigation; Elementary Secondary Education; *Eligibility; *State Aid; *State Legislation; *State School District Relationship Identifiers: *Michigan EJ569513 SP526920 The Role of Charter Schools in the Reinvention of Public Education. Author: Patrick, Diane P. Availability: Journal Citation: Teacher Education and Practice, v13 n2 p1-14 Fall-Win 1997 Publication Date: 1997 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--General (140) Journal Announcement: CIJMAR1999 Abstract: Reviews the history of charter laws since the first charter law was passed in 1991, examining the implementation of charter schools in California, Colorado, Minnesota, and Texas. The paper delineates issues and concerns and suggests educational practices within charter schools which are pertinent to the successful reinvention of public schools in the United States. (SM) Descriptors: Accountability; *Charter Schools; *Educational Change; Educational Legislation; Elementary Secondary Education; Laws; Nontraditional Education; *Public Education Identifiers: California; Colorado; Minnesota; Texas EJ566788 SE560002 Creationists Take Advantage of Michigan's Charter School Law. Author: Matsumura, Molleen Availability: Journal Citation: Reports of the National Center for Science Education, v14 n3 p1,7 Fall 1994 Publication Date: 1994 ISSN: 1064-2358 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Opinion papers (120) Journal Announcement: CIJJAN1999 Abstract: Reports on the establishment of a charter school in Michigan that serves home-schooling families and stresses a creationist curriculum. Describes the legal action taken against public funding of the charter school. (DDR) Descriptors: *Accountability; *Charter Schools; Court Litigation; *Creationism; Elementary Secondary Education; *Home Schooling; Institutional Autonomy; Nontraditional Education; Science Curriculum Identifiers: Michigan EJ566228 EA534730 Tracking the Charter School Movement. Author: Schneider, Ann M. Availability: Journal Citation: School Business Affairs, v64 n6 p17-18 Jun 1998 Publication Date: 1998 ISSN: 0036-651X Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJJAN1999 Abstract: Over 166,000 students attend charter schools. President Clinton has called for the creation of 3,000 charter schools by 2000. This article examines effects of "weak" versus "strong" charter-school laws, discusses charters' pros and cons, explains funding challenges, and reviews preliminary findings on charter schools' effectiveness. Charter schools will be challenged to sustain founders' intense commitment. (11 references) (MLH) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; Educational Benefits; Elementary Secondary Education; Financial Problems; Program Effectiveness; *State Legislation Identifiers: Arizona; California; Michigan EJ537525 EA532933 Critical Components of Charter Schools: An Analysis by State. Author: Wood, R. Craig; Smith, Stephen Availability: Journal Citation: School Business Affairs v62 n12 p28-30,32-33 Dec 1996 Publication Date: 1996-00-00 ISSN: ISSN-0036-651X Language: English Document Type: Journal Articles (080); Reports (140) Journal Announcement: CIJJUN1997 Abstract: The latest educational reform is that of charter schools. This article surveys the perceived benefits of charter schools and their organizational characteristics. Describes fiscal and policy issues and outlines seven critical components necessary for passing successful charter legislation. One figure is included. (Five references) (LMI) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; Educational Finance; Educational Innovation; Elementary Secondary Education; *Government School Relationship; Institutional Autonomy; Nontraditional Education; Public Schools; *State Legislation; State Regulation; Teacher Certification EJ537522 EA532930 Charter Schools: A Status Report. Author: Premack, Eric Availability: Journal Citation: School Business Affairs v62 n12 p10-15 Dec 1996 Publication Date: 1996-00-00 ISSN: ISSN-0036-651X Language: English Document Type: Journal Articles (080); Information Analyses (070) Journal Announcement: CIJJUN1997 Abstract: School legislation is often designed to alter the fundamental structure of the public education system. Article describes elements of charter-school legislation and provides examples of strong and weak laws. Discusses California's experience to date with charter schools, issues to consider when assessing the implications of charter-reform legislation, financial and organizational matters, the issues of solvency and liability, and prospects for charter-school legislation. (16 references) (LMI) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; Educational Finance; Educational Innovation; Elementary Secondary Education; *Institutional Autonomy; Legal Responsibility; Nontraditional Education; Public Schools; *School Organization; School Restructuring; *State Legislation; State School District Relationship Identifiers: *Charter School Legislation EJ530651 EA532543 Colorado's Charter Schools: A Spark for Change and a Catalyst for Reform. Author: Windler, William Availability: Journal Citation: Phi Delta Kappan v78 n1 p66-69 Sep 1996 Publication Date: 1996-00-00 ISSN: ISSN-0031-7217 Language: English Document Type: Reports (141); Journal Articles (080) Journal Announcement: CIJFEB1997 Abstract: Colorado charter schools are public schools operated by a group of parents, teachers, and/or community members as a semiautonomous school of choice within a district. They have increased competition and spurred districts to develop more attractive alternatives. Colorado's Standards Based Education Act requires charter and other schools to adopt universal high academic standards. (MLH) Descriptors: *Academic Standards; *Charter Schools; *Community Involvement; Competition; Elementary Secondary Education; *Parent Participation; Public Education; *School Choice; *State Legislation Identifiers: *Colorado EJ530650 EA532542 Charter Schools: California's Education Reform Power Tool. Author: Premack, Eric Availability: Journal Citation: Phi Delta Kappan v78 n1 p60,62-64 Sep 1996 Publication Date: 1996-00-00 ISSN: ISSN-0031-7217 Language: English Document Type: Reports (141); Journal Articles (080) Journal Announcement: CIJFEB1997 Abstract: Although seriously needing clarification and cleanup, California's charter legislation is demonstrating its capacity as an educational policy power tool. The legislation favors strong elements of the existing system, including dedicated, forward-thinking staff, boards, and union leaders. Weak elements--micromanaging boards, unsupportive central offices, and inflexible labor agreements--are coming under fire. (MLH) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; *Educational Innovation; Elementary Secondary Education; *Program Evaluation; *Program Implementation; *State Legislation Identifiers: *California EJ530648 EA532540 The Story of California's Charter School Legislation. Author: Hart, Gary K.; Burr, Sue Availability: Journal Citation: Phi Delta Kappan v78 n1 p37-40 Sep 1996 Publication Date: 1996-00-00 ISSN: ISSN-0031-7217 Language: English Document Type: Reports (141); Journal Articles (080) Journal Announcement: CIJFEB1997 Abstract: Describes how two progressive Democrats initiated the school charter movement in California. They crafted a legislative proposal that retained the attractive features of the voucher movement (school choice, local control, and responsiveness to clients) while preserving the basic principles of a free, nonsectarian, and nondiscriminatory public education. After four successful years, many want to expand the program. (MLH) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; *Educational Change; Educational History; *Educational Vouchers; Elementary Secondary Education; *State Legislation Identifiers: *California EJ530647 EA532539 Charter Schools: The Revitalization of Public Education. Author: Goenner, James N. Availability: Journal Citation: Phi Delta Kappan v78 n1 p32,34-36 Sep 1996 Publication Date: 1996-00-00 ISSN: ISSN-0031-7217 Language: English Document Type: Reports (141); Journal Articles (080) Journal Announcement: CIJFEB1997 Abstract: Michigan allows four different entities to authorize charter schools: state public universities, community colleges, intermediate school districts, and local school districts. To ensure establishment of high-quality standards, Central Michigan University developed a rigorous two-phase chartering process. Charters avoid best approaches and emphasize low student/teacher ratios and individualized instruction. (14 references) (MLH) Descriptors: *Accountability; *Charter Schools; *Educational Change; Elementary Secondary Education; Individualized Instruction; Program Descriptions; *Public Education; *State Legislation; Teacher Student Ratio Identifiers: *Central Michigan University; *Michigan EJ529247 EA531982 The Short but Very Curious Legal History of Michigan's Charter Schools. Author: Furst, Lyndon G. Availability: Journal Citation: West's Education Law Quarterly v5 n2 p233-45 Apr 1996 Publication Date: 1996-00-00 Language: English Document Type: Viewpoints (120); Journal Articles (080) Journal Announcement: CIJJAN1997 Abstract: During its 1993 session, the Michigan legislature enacted two statutes for the organization and operation of public school academies, Michigan's name for charter schools. A circuit court judge declared the charter schools were unconstitutional. In response, the legislature amended its original enactment. Traces the short but curious history of charter schools in Michigan. (70 footnotes) (MLF) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; Contracts; *Court Litigation; Privatization; *Public Schools; State Courts; *State Legislation Identifiers: *Michigan Descriptive Terms: Articles also appear in West's Education Law Reporter, January-March 1996, volumes 104-106. EJ517763 EA531366 Charter Schools in the United States: The Question of Autonomy. Author: Wohlstetter, Priscilla; And Others Availability: Journal Citation: Educational Policy v9 n4 p331-58 Dec 1995 Publication Date: 1995-00-00 ISSN: ISSN-0895-9048 Language: English Document Type: Reports (142); Journal Articles (080) Journal Announcement: CIJJUN1996 Abstract: Explores legislative conditions that promote charter-school autonomy, applying a conceptual framework of autonomy to assess variations among state charter-school policies. Results suggest that state policies offer different self-governance levels and thereby influence charter schools' innovative ability and performance potential. Variations are related to state political cultures and decentralization history. (53 references) (MLH) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; *Decentralization; *Educational Innovation; Elementary Secondary Education; *Political Influences; *School Based Management; *State Legislation EJ508280 EA530906 Legal Issues in Charter Schooling. Author: Semple, Martin Availability: Journal Citation: School Administrator v52 n7 p24-26 Aug 1995 Publication Date: 1995-00-00 ISSN: ISSN-0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Reports (142); Legal/Legislative/Regulatory Material (090); Journal Articles (080) Journal Announcement: CIJDEC1995 Abstract: The most likely legal issues to arise concerning charter schools include teacher employment and qualification issues, liability concerns, special-needs student issues, due process, religious issues, and contract rules. School leaders can head off problems by clarifying who is in charge, spelling out the mission statement, and dealing up front with charter terms. (MLH) Descriptors: Disabilities; *Due Process; Elementary Secondary Education; *Employment; *Legal Problems; *Legal Responsibility; Public Education; Religious Factors; *State Church Separation; *State Legislation; Student Needs Identifiers: *Charter Schools DocumentsED456559 EA031265Charter School Laws across the States, 2000: Ranking Score Card and Legislative Profiles. Institutional Author: Center for Education Reform, Washington, DC.(BBB33492) Availability: EDRS Price MF01 Plus Postage. PC Not Available from EDRS. Publication Date: 2000 Language: English Pages: 89 Document Type: Reference materials (130); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: RIEFEB2002 Abstract: For the 4th year, the Center for Education Reform has evaluated the strength of state legislation establishing charter schools throughout America. The Center offers the nation's only comprehensive evaluation of all charter-school laws using well-established criteria. These laws fall along a spectrum from "strong" (fostering the development of numerous, genuinely independent charter schools) to "weak" (providing few opportunities for development). Thirty-seven state charter laws are ranked according to strength using an A to F grading system. The legislative analysis of each state's charter law and ranking in this document is important for several reasons: the data can serve as guideposts for what kind of charter activity is likely to occur under certain legislative conditions; they also provide a useful yardstick against which to measure and fashion forthcoming legislation and amendments; and they can create awareness of the details and repercussions of various policies by considering the path taken by other states. It is hoped that this document will serve as a guide for states in evaluating their own charter laws for the first time or revisiting the laws with an eye to making potential amendments. (RT) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; *Educational Legislation; Educational Policy; Elementary Secondary Education; Evaluation; *School Law; *State Legislation Identifiers: Reform Efforts Geographic Source: U.S.; District of Columbia ED454583 EA031053 Charter School Laws: Ranking Scorecard. Institutional Author: Center for Education Reform, Washington, DC.(BBB33492) Availability: For full text: http://www.edreform.com/charterschools/laws/ranking2 001.pdf. Publication Date: May 2001 Language: English Pages: 9 Document Type: Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: RIEDEC2001 Abstract: This is the fifth report prepared by the Center for Education Reform (CER) evaluating the capacity and flexibility of state laws promoting charter schools. Three primary factors were evaluated in preparing charter-school quality rankings by state. The center finds that the establishment of multiple sponsoring authorities, in addition to local school boards, is one of the most important mechanisms for promoting charter schools. Those states with multiple sponsoring authorities are home to over 80 percent of the nation's charter schools. The number of schools is the second criterion CER used to rank the quality of state charter-school laws. The third primary criterion employed by CER assesses the degree to which enabling legislation provides full legal autonomy to charter schools, freeing them to meet their objectives without undue interference from local school districts. Specific factors evaluated include year the charter law was passed, number of schools allowed, number of chartering authorities, number of eligible applicants, new starts allowed, ability to form new schools in the absence of public support, automatic waivers from state and district laws, legal autonomy, guaranteed full per-pupil funding, fiscal autonomy, and exemption from collective-bargaining agreements. Charter-school states are grouped as either "strong" or "weak" in their support of charter schools. New laws in some states (for example, Indiana) produced slight changes in rankings compared to past years, but general trends are holding, with Arizona, Delaware, and Michigan the most supportive of charter schools and Virginia, Kansas, and Mississippi the least supportive of the 38 states that allow charter schools. (Contains a copy of the press release accompanying the report.) (TEJ) Descriptors: Academic Achievement; Accountability; *Charter Schools; Educational Change; Educational Improvement; *Educational Innovation; *Educational Legislation; Educational Policy; Elementary Secondary Education; *Government School Relationship; Laws; Politics of Education; School Effectiveness; *State Legislation; *State Regulation Identifiers: Indiana Geographic Source: U.S.; District of Columbia ED452606 EA030997 How Equal Is Access to Charter Schools? Author: Ausbrooks, Carrie Y. Barron Availability: EDRS Price MF01/PC03 Plus Postage. Publication Date: April 12, 2001 Language: English Pages: 59 Document Type: Information Analysis (070); Speeches/meeting papers (150) Journal Announcement: RIEOCT2001 Abstract: Although charter schools are rapidly becoming an integral part of the public-school landscape, much remains unknown about them. This paper reports on the findings of a descriptive-research study that comprised an analysis of U.S. charter-school statutes. The focus of the investigation was on equity in the areas of student recruitment, admission and enrollment, transportation, and information dissemination. Research was guided by seven questions that addressed the extent to which charter-school statutes foster equality of student access to their schools. Each state's charter-school statute was examined to determine the extent to which it included specific provisions with regard to: (1) providing access to underrepresented student groups; (2) admission policy guidelines or requirements; (3) geographic boundary requirements; (4) denial of student requests for admission; (5) provisions for when enrollment exceeds capacity; (6) student transportation policy guidelines or requirements; and (7) policy guidelines or requirements for dissemination of charter-school information. The findings suggest that states' statutes do an adequate job of ensuring that underrepresented groups have access to charter schools and that students' civil rights are not violated by charter schools. Virtually all, save 2, of the 36 statutes reviewed contained some provision with regard to ensuring that underrepresented groups (the economically disadvantaged, minority, and special-need students) have the same access as other students to charter schools. (Contains 11 references.) (DFR) Descriptors: Academic Achievement; *Admission Criteria; *Charter Schools; *Curriculum Development; Educational Change; Educational Legislation; Elementary Secondary Education; *Enrollment; *Equal Education; Family Involvement; Family School Relationship; Financial Support; Governance; Public Schools; *Student Recruitment Descriptive Terms: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association (Seattle, WA, April 10-14, 2001). Geographic Source: U.S.; Texas ED446391 EA030697 Charter Schools. Issue Brief. Author: McComb, Jan Institutional Author: Oregon State Legislature, Salem.(BBB28143) Availability: EDRS Price MF01/PC01 Plus Postage. Governmental Status: State Publication Date: March 2000 Language: English Pages: 5 Document Type: Information Analysis (070) Journal Announcement: RIEAPR2001 Abstract: Since 1991, charter schools of widely varying types and structure have spread to 1600 schools nationwide. A federal study suggests charter schools, compared with other public schools, are smaller, have a similar racial composition, and serve on average slightly fewer students with disabilities, an equal percentage with limited English proficiency, and slightly more school-lunch-eligible students. Following three defeats, in 1999 the Oregon legislature authorized charter schools, either as new entities or expansions of existing programs. Schools must be open to all and offer a comprehensive instructional program. Charter schools are exempted from state laws governing schools, excepting academic standards, assessment requirements, and health, safety, and antidiscrimination laws. Half of all teachers must be licensed, others are subject to criminal background checks, and they may join existing unions or form new locals. The state provides funding through the school district. (TEJ) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; Elementary Secondary Education; Institutional Autonomy; Public Schools; *School Based Management; School Effectiveness; *State Legislation; State Regulation; Teacher Certification Identifiers: *Oregon; Oregon State Department of Education Target Audience: Policymakers Geographic Source: U.S.; Oregon ED444254 EA030574 Texas: Charter Schools and the Struggle for Equity. Author: Fusarelli, Lance D. Availability: EDRS Price MF01/PC02 Plus Postage. Publication Date: April 25, 2000 Language: English Pages: 35 Document Type: Reports--Evaluative (142); Speeches/meeting papers (150) Journal Announcement: RIEFEB2001 Abstract: This paper examines how the Texas charter-school law is being implemented, with particular attention paid to issues of equity and social justice. It focuses on the demographic composition of students and staff in Texas' charter schools, provisions for oversight and accountability, early indices of student performance, ongoing controversies, analyses of trends, and recommendations for ensuring equity in charter schools. Compared with their overall enrollment in public schools, African-American and Hispanic students are over-represented in charter schools, while their Anglo counterparts are underrepresented. In addition, charter schools serve fewer numbers of special-education and limited-English-proficient (LEP) students than public schools statewide. This raises serious questions of equity and social justice, particularly insofar as children labeled as "special ed" or LEP are considered by many educators to be the children most difficult to educate. Another equity area concerns the subject of staffing and governance. Tables present student demographics and percentage passing the Texas Assessment of Academic Skills for charter schools and public schools. An appendix contains a summary of key provisions of Texas' Charter School Law. (Contains 38 references.) (DFR) Descriptors: *Academic Achievement; *Accountability; *Charter Schools; *Demography; Elementary Secondary Education; *Equal Education; *Justice; Public Schools; State Boards of Education; Teacher Characteristics Identifiers: *Texas Descriptive Terms: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association (New Orleans, Louisiana, April 24-28, 2000). Supported by a Faculty Research Grant, Fordham University. Geographic Source: U.S.; New York ED442221 EC307857 The Politics of Special Education Policy in Charter School Legislation: Lessons from Pennsylvania. Author: Dale, Richard E. Availability: EDRS Price MF01/PC02 Plus Postage. Publication Date: April 24, 2000 Language: English Pages: 36 Document Type: Reports--Evaluative (142); Speeches/meeting papers (150) Journal Announcement: RIEDEC2000 Abstract: This study explored how and why special education policy issues were treated as they were in the formulation of Pennsylvania's charter school law, Act 22 of 1997. The qualitative study utilized formal and informal interviews of state policymakers, review of documents, review of archival records, and participant observation. Findings indicated a philosophical mismatch between two educational concepts: charter schools (a deregulated movement) and special education (seen as an over-regulated area). Among 15 specific findings were the following: (1) policymakers failed to anticipate the paradoxical outcome of making charter schools autonomous; (2) special education issues were neglected because special education experts were not called upon to contribute to the design of Act 22 of 1997; (3) policymakers feared that the charter school bill might be derailed if much time or exposure were given in the debate to the controversial matter of special education; and (4) the shift in competing values away from an emphasis on equity to a focus on liberty (choice) and efficiency contributed to the neglect of special education issues. The paper urges Pennsylvania policymakers to review and clarify issues concerning the Act's special education funding formula, admission of children with disabilities, transportation, and teacher certification. (Contains 25 references.) (DB) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; *Disabilities; *Educational Legislation; Educational Policy; Elementary Secondary Education; Federal Legislation; Qualitative Research; Regular and Special Education Relationship; *Special Education; *State Legislation Identifiers: *Pennsylvania Descriptive Terms: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association (New Orleans, Louisiana, April 24-28, 2000). Target Audience: Policymakers Geographic Source: U.S.; Pennsylvania ED440193 UD033488 School Choice 2000 Annual Report. The Heritage Foundation Backgrounder. Author: Rees, Nina Shokraii Institutional Author: Heritage Foundation, Washington, DC.(BBB19698) Availability: The Heritage Foundation, 214 Massachusetts Ave., NE, Washington, DC 20002-4999. Tel: 202-546-4400. For full text: http://www.heritage.org/library/backgrounder/bg1354.html. Publication Date: March 30, 2000 Report Number: HF-BG-1354 Language: English Pages: 13 Document Type: Reports--Descriptive (141) Journal Announcement: RIESEP2000 Abstract: During 1999, the school choice movement succeeded in winning the enactment of an education tax credit program in Illinois and two new charter school laws, in addition to the sweeping (although subsequently overturned) school choice plan in Florida. Pennsylvania, New Mexico, and Texas also attempted to enact school choice legislation. In addition, a survey found that 1.25 million low-income parents would take advantage of scholarships to attend a better private or religious school if given a choice. None of the lawsuits against school choice was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court, although many are pending. Public opinion shows continued interest in school choice, especially at the grass-roots level among African Americans, but the development that could significantly affect the future of the movement is the presidential election. Research has shown that school choice works, but many challenges lie ahead for the supporters of school choice. Two charts show governor support of school vouchers and school choice and charter school programs at a glance. (SLD) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; *Educational Vouchers; Elementary Secondary Education; Free Choice Transfer Programs; Minority Groups; Nontraditional Education; Private School Aid; Racial Discrimination; *School Choice; School Restructuring; State Legislation; *State Programs; Tax Credits; Tuition; *Urban Schools Geographic Source: U.S.; District of Columbia ED438626 EA030267 A Word On... Fall 1999/Winter 2000. Author: Gittins, Naomi, Ed. Institutional Author: National School Boards Association, Alexandria, VA.(BBB23035) Availability: EDRS Price MF01/PC01 Plus Postage. Journal Citation: A Word On..., v15 n4 Fall 1999-Win 2000 Publication Date: 2000 Language: English Pages: 25 Document Type: Collected works--Serials (022) Journal Announcement: RIEAUG2000 Abstract: This issue summarizes the development and impact of charter schools. It examines aspects of laws that have paved the way for charter schools and describes some of the litigation that has accompanied the charter-school phenomenon. The text offers practical advice on how to draft good charter-school contracts and notes some of the past and ongoing research that addresses the questions of whether charter schools have been able to deliver what proponents promised and what school children need in order to receive the type of education that they deserve. The text opens with a breakdown of states with charter-school legislation and the year that these laws were passed. During the 1990s, 36 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico enacted legislation enabling charter schools. Most of the document is devoted to information charts on charter schools. This information, categorized by state, includes synopses of eligible applicants for charter-school status, relation of charter schools to the school system, the organizational status of the charter schools in the state, the authority as regards charter-school employees, and the finance provisions for the state's charter schools. Brief overviews of charter-school litigation are presented after the charts, followed by issues and checklists for the charter-school contract. (RJM) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; Court Litigation; Educational Administration; *Educational Assessment; Elementary Secondary Education; National Surveys; School Demography; State Surveys; *Summative Evaluation Identifiers: Chartering Process Geographic Source: U.S.; Virginia ED434400 EA030062 Chartering for Excellence: Developing & Implementing Charter School Legislation. A Guide for Policymakers. Author: Dornan, John Institutional Author: SERVE: SouthEastern Regional Vision for Education.(BBB29603) Availability: SERVE, Publishing and Quality Assurance Department, 1203 Governor's Square Boulevard, Suite 400, Tallahassee, FL 32301 (Item No. HTCFE, $6). Tel: 800-352-6001 (Toll Free). Governmental Status: Federal Sponsoring Agency: Office of Educational Research and Improvement (ED), Washington, DC. (EDD00036) Publication Date: 1998 Language: English Pages: 75 Document Type: Guides--Non-classroom (055) Journal Announcement: RIEMAR2000 Abstract: This is the third SERVE publication about charter school issues. It focuses on implementation concerns confronting policymakers and state-education agencies, with particular emphasis on charter-related issues and recommendations for policymakers. The text focuses on strategies for drafting charter school legislation, issues that affect state-agency staffing, concerns in screening charter applications, and other materials that relate to accountability, monitoring, racial balance, funding, groups other than state boards, bridging the gap between charters and other public schools, and barriers to change. These chapters are followed by a series of policy briefs: "Selecting High-Quality Charter Schools," by Bryan Hassel; "The False Friends of Charter Schools: What Policymakers Can Do," by Gregg Vanourek, Bruno V. Manno, and Chester E. Finn, Jr.; "A Close Look at Charters: What Your Board Needs To Know Before You Accept a Proposal for a Charter School," by Judith Brody Saks; and "A Study of Charter Schools: First Year Report--May 1997," an executive summary which provides the highlights from the first-year report of the National Study of Charter Schools, a 4-year research effort to document and analyze the charter-school movement. (Five appendices include information on charter-school resources, the status of charter schools in the southeastern U.S., and other data.) (RJM) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; *Educational Policy; Elementary Secondary Education; Policy Analysis; *Position Papers; Program Implementation; School Policy Target Audience: Policymakers Contract Number: RJ96006701 Geographic Source: U.S.; District of Columbia ED432802 EA029944 The Charter School Challenge: Avoiding the Pitfalls, Fulfilling the Promise. Author: Hassel, Bryan C. Institutional Author: Brookings Institution, Washington, DC.(BBB01336) Availability: Brookings Institution Press Bookstore, 1775 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20036-2188 (hardcover: ISBN 0-8157-3512-X, $39.95; paperback: ISBN 0-8157-3511-1, $16.95); Tel: 800-275-1447 (Toll Free); Fax: 202-797-6004; Web site: http://www.brookings.edu Publication Date: 1999 ISBN: 0-8157-3512-X Language: English Pages: 193 Document Type: Book (010); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: RIEJAN2000 Abstract: This book examines charter-school legislation in the United States, as well as charter-school operations in Colorado, Michigan, Massachusetts, and Georgia. It reviews the legislative process in these four states, focusing on the compromises forged as lawmakers worked for adoption. It describes whether the states' resulting programs provide sufficient autonomy, resources, and potential to influence the broader education system. Following an introduction that outlines the promises and pitfalls of charter schools, the text is divided into three sections. Part 1, "The Politics of Charter School Programs," includes an overview of charter-school politics and provides details on compromises reached in the four states. Part 2 looks at charter-school programs in practice, whereas part 3 offers information on fulfilling the promise of charter schools. States under Republican control were more likely to pass strong charter laws than those where Democrats ruled. The text concludes that if states want to give charter schools a full test, they should empower nonlocal entities to approve charter schools, establish the schools as distinct local entities, allow full per-pupil funding to go with students to the charter schools, and impose minimal constraints on the source and number of charter schools. (Contains an index.) (RJM) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; Educational Assessment; Educational Change; *Educational Legislation; Elementary Secondary Education; Institutional Autonomy; National Surveys; Political Influences; Politics of Education; *State Legislation Identifiers: Colorado; Georgia; Massachusetts; Michigan Geographic Source: U.S.; District of Columbia ED426497 EA029602 Variations on Autonomy: Charter School Laws in the Southwestern Region. Author: McGree, Kathleen M.; Mutchler, Sue E. Institutional Author: Southwest Educational Development Lab., Austin, TX.(BBB00950) Availability: EDRS Price MF01/PC05 Plus Postage. Sponsoring Agency: Office of Educational Research and Improvement (ED), Washington, DC. (EDD00036) Publication Date: 1998 Language: English Pages: 101 Document Type: Reports--Descriptive (141) Journal Announcement: RIEJUN1999 Abstract: Advocates of charter schools claim that the degree of autonomy that legislatures grant charter schools plays a large role in the success of these schools. This report describes an analysis of how legislation in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas is transforming the concept of charter schools into an education-reform opportunity for educators, parents, and community members. The text focuses on the legislative variables that influence charter-school autonomy and how these variables serve as indicators of the degree to which state policy appears to promote the emergence of innovative schools. The booklet features three major sections. An overview provides a historical and conceptual context by describing charter-school laws and by presenting the framework for autonomy that guides the analysis of those laws. The second section offers three dimensions of school-site autonomy--autonomy from higher levels of government, autonomy inside the school, and autonomy of parents and students--and gives specific features of charter school law and different levels of detail. The last section highlights the similarities and differences in charter-school autonomy among all four state laws. An appendix offers technical information on the rationale, development, and use of the autonomy framework. (RJM) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; Educational Change; *Educational Legislation; Elementary Secondary Education; Models; *School District Autonomy; School Law; *School Restructuring Identifiers: *United States (Southwest) Descriptive Terms: For other documents in this series, see EA 029 601 and ED 401 619. Contract Number: RJ96006801 Geographic Source: U.S.; Texas ED425126 SP038202 School Choice and Privatization Efforts: A Legislative Survey. Author: Laitsch, Dan Institutional Author: American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, Washington, DC.(BBB14763) Availability: AACTE Publications, 1307 New York Avenue, N.W., Suite 300, Washington, DC 20005-4701. Publication Date: October 05, 1998 ISBN: 0-89333-171-6 Language: English Pages: 13 Document Type: Reports--Research (143) Journal Announcement: RIEAPR1999 Abstract: Recently, legislators have become interested in school privatization as a tool to increase educational choices, introducing more than 400 bills related to privatization during the 1998 session. The education privatization movement is a compilation of many different efforts to expand the role of private schools in education. The efforts include using public funds directly through grants or scholarships, and indirectly through tax incentives. Through a survey of legislation and a review of available literature, this paper details the current state of privatization efforts. Data collection included a search of the StateNet database (a private database of all bills introduced during the current session in every state legislature and Congress). The search turned up 452 bills related to choice, vouchers, tax credits, and charter schools. The bills identified were categorized by reform, content, sponsor, sponsor's party affiliation, party control of legislature and governor's office, and final status (passed, failed, or vetoed). This report presents an overview of the legislation, then offers case examinations from Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and Virginia. An appendix defines relevant terms. (Contains 47 references.) (SM) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; *Educational Legislation; Educational Vouchers; Elementary Secondary Education; Parent Participation; *Private School Aid; Public Schools; *School Choice; State Legislation; *Tax Credits Identifiers: Arizona; Colorado; Utah; Virginia Geographic Source: U.S.; District of Columbia ED424683 EA029462 Overview of Charter Schools. Hearing on Examining the Role of Charter Schools in Educational Reform, State and Federal Funds, and S. 1380 and H.R. 2616, Bills To Extend the Authorization of Funds through Fiscal Year 2002 for Titles VI and X of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act To Expand the Implementation of Public Charter Schools of the Committee on Labor and Human Resources, United States Senate, One Hundred Fifth Congress, Second Session. Institutional Author: Congress of the U.S., Washington, DC. Senate Committee on Labor and Human Resources.(BBB17813) Availability: U.S. Government Printing Office, Superintendent of Documents, Congressional Sales Office, Washington, DC 20402. Governmental Status: Federal Publication Date: March 31, 1998 ISBN: 0-16-057045-X Report Number: Senate-Hrg-105-483 Language: English Pages: 106 Document Type: Legal/Legislative/Regulatory materials (090) Journal Announcement: RIEAPR1999 Abstract: Charter schools are public schools that are established through state law and are often released from traditional regulations that apply to public schools in return for an accountability system that emphasizes student outcomes. This hearing focused on how Federal education funds are distributed to charter schools; the academic and administrative operations of charter schools; the impact of a charter-school environment on special-needs students; and the impact of charter schools on the public school system. The hearing includes the statements of Representative Tim Roemer; Senator Joseph Lieberman; Cornelia Blanchette, associate director of education and employment issues, Health, Education, and Human Services Division of the General Accounting Office; Lisa Keegan, state superintendent of Pubic Instruction, Arizona; Senator Christopher Dodd; Joan Heffernan, director of the Integrated Day Charter School; Raymond Jackson, president and chief executive officer of ATOP Academy; Tim Sindelar, an attorney for the Disability Law Center; and Eric Rofes, who produced a report on how school districts respond to charter laws and charter schools. Some of the issues covered include how some charter schools improve graduation rates and how some of these schools underserve the special-education population. (RJM) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; Educational Innovation; *Educational Legislation; Elementary Secondary Education; Federal Government; Government Role; Government School Relationship; Hearings; Profiles; School Administration Identifiers: Congress 105th Geographic Source: U.S.; District of Columbia ED418203 UD032263 Autonomy, Accountability, and the Values of Public Education: A Comparative Assessment of Charter School Statutes Leading to Model Legislation. Author: Millot, Marc Dean Institutional Author: Washington Univ., Seattle. Center on Reinventing Public Education. Availability: Sponsoring Agency: New American Schools Development Corp.; BBB28936 _ Rand Corp., Santa Monica, CA. Inst. for Education and Training. Publication Date: 1996-09-00 Copy Availibility: EDRS Price MF01/PC13 Plus Postage. Language: English Pages: 304 Document Type: Statistical Data (110); Reports (142) Journal Announcement: RIEAUG1998 Abstract: This report analyzes state statutes authorizing a new approach to the organization of elementary and secondary education in the public sector, the outcome-based, contract, or, as it is now commonly called, charter school. Charter school statutes create an alternative legal framework for the formation of public schools by permitting a state education agency to grant an individual public school some degree of autonomy from central control over critical decisions of accountability for educational results in return for the school's acceptance of some degree of accountability for educational results. Charter schools compete directly with district-run schools for students and funding, and this competition is intended to raise the quality of public education for all. This report provides a comparative analysis of the charter school statutes of 11 states. First it examines the expressions of legislative intent, and then the more salient features of charter school legislation are discussed, comparing the various statutory provisions. The report then analyzes some of the tensions between autonomy and accountability, and discusses key issues legislators must address. The report also addresses potential tensions between charter school autonomy and the values of public education. Finally, the paper discusses key provisions of a proposed draft model developed in the course of this study. The guiding assumption of this model is the need to balance the goals of autonomy and accountability while maintaining the core values of public education. The state statutes are attached. (Contains 36 tables.) (SLD) Descriptors: *Accountability; *Charter Schools; Comparative Analysis; Elementary Secondary Education; Models; *Public Schools; School Districts; State Departments of Education; *State Legislation; Tables (Data) Level: 1 Target Audience: Policymakers Geographic Source: U.S.; Washington ED416580 EA028904 Colorado Charter School Information Packet and Handbook. The Colorado Charter Schools Act of 1993. Fifth Edition. Author: Windler, William, Ed. Institutional Author: Colorado State Dept. of Education, Denver. Availability: Governmental Status: State Publication Date: 1997-09-00 Copy Availibility: EDRS Price MF01/PC04 Plus Postage. Language: English Pages: 83 Document Type: Guides (055) Journal Announcement: RIEJUL1998 Abstract: In authorizing charter schools, Colorado created an avenue for parents, teachers, and community members to take responsible risks and create new, innovative, more flexible ways of educating all children within the public school system. A brief outline of charter schools, followed by detailed instructions on how to apply for and start a charter school, is offered in this handbook. It defines what a charter school is, discusses the Charter School Act (which is appended at the end), and the purposes for having such a school. In applying for a charter, a clear statement of mission, goals, philosophy, values, and principles is essential. Some of the required elements of a charter application include: a mission statement; a budget; the role of students, parents, teachers, and the accountability committee; evidence of support for the school; and a listing of educational programs and standards. The potential charter school must describe educational programs, pupil performance standards, and the curriculum and content standards, which should include a plan for evaluating pupil performance. A summary of Colorado regulations for charter schools and a list of organizations and resource persons appears at the end. (RJM) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; Educational Innovation; Educational Planning; Elementary Secondary Education; *Experimental Schools; Guidelines; Nontraditional Education; Program Proposals; *Public Schools; Specifications Identifiers: *Colorado Level: 1 Geographic Source: U.S.; Colorado ED410668 EA028566 Charter School Laws: Do They Measure Up? Institutional Author: American Federation of Teachers, Washington, DC. Availability: American Federation of Teachers, 555 New Jersey Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20001-2079 (Stock No. 240). Publication Date: 1996-11-00 Copy Availibility: Document Not Available from EDRS. Language: English Pages: 68 Document Type: Reports (142) Journal Announcement: RIEJAN1998 Abstract: The outcomes of charter schools to date are inconclusive. This report examines the charter legislation in 25 states in reference to the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) criteria. The criteria evaluate the legislation in regard to the likelihood that it will produce quality schools and/or serve as examples of how the larger system of public schools should operate. The analysis indicates that not all states require that charter schools develop programs that are consonant with state and/or local standards; that all states prohibit charter schools from charging tuition, but are less clear regarding fees and donations; and that there is great variety in the governance structures of charter states. The report offers the following recommendations: (1) charter schools must be based on high academic standards; (2) charter-school students must take the same tests as other students in the state and district; (3) charter-school employees should be covered by the collective-bargaining agreement; (4) charter schools should be required to hire certified teachers; (5) charter schools should have the approval of local school districts; and (6) charter schools should be required to make information available to the public. Four tables are included. (Contains 46 references.) (LMI) Descriptors: Academic Standards; *Accountability; *Admission Criteria; *Charter Schools; Collective Bargaining; Educational Legislation; Elementary Secondary Education; Equal Education; Governance; *Institutional Autonomy; Public Schools; School Law; *State Legislation; Teacher Qualifications Level: 3 Geographic Source: U.S.; District of Columbia ED407708 EA028332 Political Factors Shaping Charter School Laws. Author: Mintrom, Michael; Vergari, Sandra Availability: Publication Date: 1997-03-00 Copy Availibility: EDRS Price MF01/PC02 Plus Postage. Language: English Pages: 48 Document Type: Reports (143); Speeches, Conference Papers (150) Journal Announcement: RIEOCT1997 Abstract: The charter-school idea has spread rapidly across the United States. One-half of the states have adopted charter-school laws since 1991, and legislatures in other states have given the idea careful consideration. This paper explores the political factors that shape charter-school laws. The paper utilizes the policy-innovation-diffusion framework that political scientists have developed for assessing the state-to-state spread of policy laws. The paper augments the framework by considering how innovations change as they diffuse and how differences in state politics and interstate networking influence policy choices. The study draws heavily upon findings from a 50-state mail survey of education policy experts. Surveys were sent to 241 individuals in the 25 states with charter-school laws and to 216 individuals in the 25 states without charter-school laws, eliciting a 25 percent response rate. The study then used event-history models to test for regularities and differences among states in the factors that prompted consideration of the charter-school idea and the adoption of permissive laws in some states and restrictive laws in others. Applied more generally, the paper suggests that this analytical strategy could enhance understanding of the politics of policy-innovation diffusion. Nine tables are included. (Contains 54 references.) (LMI) Descriptors: *Adoption (Ideas); *Charter Schools; Diffusion (Communication); Educational Change; Educational Policy; Elementary Secondary Education; Information Dissemination; *Policy Formation; *Politics of Education; *School Law; *State Legislation; State Regulation Descriptive Terms: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association (Chicago, IL, March 24-28, 1997). Level: 1 Geographic Source: U.S.; Michigan ED402670 EA028132 A Nonprofit Technical Assistance Activity for Charter Applicants in Pennsylvania: Mission, Functions, Capabilities and Plans. Author: Millot, Marc Dean Institutional Author: Rand Corp., Santa Monica, CA. Inst. on Education and Training.; ZBQ93600 _ Washington Univ., Seattle. Availability: Publication Date: 1996-09-00 Copy Availibility: EDRS Price MF01/PC02 Plus Postage. Report Number: DRU-1491-IET Language: English Pages: 45 Document Type: Reports (142) Journal Announcement: RIEMAY1997 Abstract: Pennsylvania's proposed Charter Schools Act, House Bill (H.B.) 1834, allows charter schools to be approved by local school boards or school district voters. This report describes the mission, functions, capabilities, and plans of a potential nonprofit Technical Assistance Activity (TAA) for charter-school applicants under H.B. 1834. The report addresses the extent to which government and the private sector are likely to meet the needs of charter applicants, suggests areas where support provided by a nonprofit TAA may be of special importance to charter applicants, describes the capabilities that a TAA should possess, and provides a framework for planning the development of the new institution. The report concludes that the primary mission of a nonprofit TAA should be to support implementation of H.B. 1834 by providing information, access to professional expertise, and direct assistance to charter applicants. The specific functions of a Pennsylvania TAA are described. The report identifies basic support requirements, describes the particular needs of applicants for specialized expertise; and assesses the availability of appropriate support from government, and the cost and quality of support services from the private sector, and specifies services to be provided by the TAA. Nine tables are included. (LMI) Descriptors: *Charter Schools; Compliance (Legal); Educational Planning; Elementary Secondary Education; Information Dissemination; Information Needs; Information Services; *Partnerships in Education; Program Implementation; *School Support; Shared Resources and Services; *State Legislation; *Technical Assistance Identifiers: *Pennsylvania Descriptive Terms: Prepared for the Heinz Endowments. Level: 1 Geographic Source: U.S.; California ED394199 EA027523 Charter Schools: Experiments in Reform. An Update. Author: Dunn, David Institutional Author: Texas State Legislative Budget Board, Austin. Availability: Governmental Status: State Publication Date: 1995-10-00 Copy Availibility: EDRS Price MF01/PC01 Plus Postage. Language: English Pages: 19 Document Type: Reports (141) Journal Announcement: RIESEP1996 Abstract: As of October 1995, 17 states had adopted charter-school legislation. The strength and scope of charter-school laws vary greatly among states. This report describes those state statutes, including the 1995 law passed by the Texas State Legislature. It describes specific provisions of the Texas law, including the home-rule district charter, campus charters, open-enrollment charter schools, and public education grants. Charter laws passed in 1995 by the states of Louisiana, Alaska, Arkansas, Rhode Island, and Wyoming are described. The report briefly describes the status of charter schools in states with older charter laws--California, Colorado, Minnesota, New Mexico, Wisconsin, Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan, Kansas, and Hawaii. The relative new charter law in Arizona (1994) is also described. A chart summarizing state charter-school legislation and a list of state contacts are included. (LMI) Descriptors: Academic Achievement; *Accountability; *Charter Schools; *Decentralization; *Educational Innovation; Elementary Secondary Education; Governance; Nontraditional Education; Performance; Public Schools; School Choice; *State Legislation; State School District Relationship Identifiers: *Texas Descriptive Terms: For an earlier version, see EA 027 522. Level: 1 Geographic Source: U.S.; Texas ED392115 EA027334 Charter Schools: Legislation and Results after Four Years. Policy Report PR-813. Author: Buechler, Mark Institutional Author: Indiana Univ., Bloomington. Education Policy Center. Availability: Sponsoring Agency: Lilly Endowment, Inc., Indianapolis, IN. Publication Date: 1996-01-00 Copy Availibility: EDRS Price MF01/PC03 Plus Postage. Language: English Pages: 66 Document Type: Information Analyses (070); Reports (142) Journal Announcement: RIEJUL1996 Abstract: As of September 1995, a total of 19 states had passed charter school legislation and 226 charter schools were operating. This document presents an overview of state legislation and describes the status of charter schools in operation in the United States. Chapter 1 provides background information on charter schools--a discussion of trends leading to the charter school movement, a definition of charter schools, and arguments for and against the reform. Chapter 2 analyzes charter school laws in all 19 states, with a focus on elements of the laws that make development of charter schools more or less likely, amendments to charter school laws over the years, and trends in 1995 legislation. The progress and demise of charter school legislation in Indiana during the 1995 session of the General Assembly are examined in the third chapter. Chapter 4 summarizes and analyzes the existing research on approved and operating charter schools around the country, including information on school type and size, student population, educational approaches, barriers to formation, parent involvement, effect on the public school system as a whole, and student achievement. Recommendations for policymakers are offered in chapter 5. Findings indicate that charter schools serve a student population comparable to the overall public school population in terms of race and socioeconomic status. They offer a variety of educational innovations. The two main barriers to implementation are lack of capital funds and lack of legal/business expertise. Any link between charter school organization and student achievement has yet to be documented. Five tables are included. The appendix contains a list of contact people and organizations. (Contains 29 references.) (LMI) Descriptors: Academic Achievement; Accountability; *Charter Schools; Educational Innovation; Elementary Secondary Education; Enrollment Trends; *Institutional Autonomy; Nontraditional Education; Parent Participation; Privatization; *School Choice; *School Demography; *State Legislation Identifiers: *Indiana Level: 1 Geographic Source: U.S.; Indiana |