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Education Reform In The News
MARYLANDERS WANT, NEED CHARTER SCHOOLS
By Jeanne Allen, Submitted March 20 2003
Letter to the Editor of the Washington Post
Former MD Delegate James W. Campbell appears more interested in the perpetuation of the school system than its effectiveness, [Change of Heart About Charters, March 16, 2003]. He believes the solution to school failure lies with those already running it.
Twenty years since “A Nation at Risk” we still do not have more than one-third of our children proficient in core subjects. We can no longer wait for the system to figure this out.
Throughout the United States charter schools have raised minority student achievement. They are also widely embraced by parents whose suburban schools haven’t lived up to expectations. By requiring a focus on academic achievement and freedom from rules and regulations, thousands of charter schools have been created and are succeeding.
In 39 states and the District of Columbia, teachers and parents together have the opportunity to design independent public schools in their communities. Scores of Maryland parents and teachers want a strong law that fosters numerous charter schools.
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Click here for the latest developments on charter schools in Maryland.
Jeanne Allen is president of the Center for Education Reform in Washington, D.C. The Center for Education Reform is a national, independent, non-profit advocacy organization providing support and guidance to individuals, community and civic groups, policymakers and others who are working to bring fundamental reforms to their schools. For further information, please call (202) 822-9000.