The Washington State Supreme Court’s final ruling on the state’s public charter school law is downright shocking to the students, teachers, and communities these schools are designed to serve. Twelve-hundred of Washington’s children are relying on these schools to keep their doors open with hundreds more on wait lists. It’s a true shame that the voters of Washington — who approved charter schools by ballot initiative — are not being taken into account.
One-size-fits-all learning environments are counterproductive to meeting diverse student learning needs. Contrary to the union’s usual antics, educators actually recognize the possibilities for advancement and positive growth in the profession through choice. Public charter schools promise opportunity for students and teachers alike.
I am the executive director of Northwest Professional Educators, Washington’s nonunion professional association. NWPE has been both a vocal supporter of public charter schools and teacher choice for years because they provide an opportunity for educators to teach as autonomous and accountable professionals.
The Legislature needs to honor the will of citizens, recognize the need for schools of choice, and solve this problem at once. All students deserve education options that put their needs first, not the self-interest of entrenched stakeholders concerned with maintaining their power and the status quo.
