OAPCS Media Statement on NAPCS Health of the Charter School Movement Report

March 7, 2016

Columbus, OH– The Ohio Alliance for Public Charter Schools (OAPCS) President and CEO Dr. Darlene Chambers released the following statement in response to the NAPCS Health of the Charter Public School Movement Report released March 7, 2016:

“This report offers evidence that there is great diversity in the school models of Ohio’s charter movement, which is truly serving those students who need and seek out educational options,” said Dr. Chambers. “Nearly 39 percent of the state’s charter schools have a special focus, from performing arts to career- tech training, and the demand for choice and quality continues to grow.”

“The indicators in the report also demonstrate that the movement in Ohio is successfully applying lessons learned and best practices in all aspects of school operations, start-ups and closures,” Dr. Chambers said. “Significant thought and analysis takes place prior to new schools being opened in any community,” she added, “and the difficult decisions required in school closures are occurring when necessary.”

“Ohio’s ranking reflects the continued commitment by the charter school movement to provide students in the most challenged circumstances with educational options to meet their specific needs and goals,” she said. “As the report shows, the framework here is based on innovation and accountability to sustain quality community schools.”

 

About the Ohio Alliance for Public Charter Schools (OAPCS)

The Ohio Alliance for Public Charter Schools is a membership organization that aspires to provide children with greater educational opportunities by improving the quality and fostering the growth of Ohio’s public charter schools. Approximately 125,000 students attend public charter schools in Ohio.