We have received several messages from staff and parents regarding new articles reporting an attempt to repeal the Charter Schools Act of 1992. This ballot initiative is alarming to those of us who have seen the incredible educational opportunities available through charter schools in California. Supporters of the initiative still need to gather 365,880 signatures in order to place it on the ballot.
IEM is monitoring the progress of this initiative and taking appropriate steps to oppose it. Based on the information available to us at this point, the group behind this proposal is in the very early stages and nothing binding has occurred. We will continue to post updates as more information becomes available.
In the meantime, here are some things to keep in mind:
- This proposed legislation is in the early stages and nothing has been filed at the state level. The signatures they are currently gathering are to build a contact database.
- The pro-charter movement and advocacy groups in California is strong and opposes this attack on charter schools.
- IEM is in contact with charter school advocacy agencies (APLUS+ and CSDC) who assure us that they are working at the policy and legislative level against this proposal.
Parents and concerned individuals can help by sharing their positive experiences with charter schools and explain the benefits that charter schools have made in children’s lives.
Please feel free to contact us IEM (800.979.4436) with any additional or escalated concerns.
Cynthia Rachel, M.Ed
Director of Education Support Services
Jason Jones, Ed.D.
Chief Administrative Officer
