|
It may seem odd to have me explain about charter schools in a newsletter coming from the charter school your child attends, however, I find it important to provide this valuable and interesting information. I feel it is important for everyone to have a minimum understanding of what charters really are and what we represent. You never know when you will have the opportunity to show off your charter school knowledge. I hope you find this information valuable and reinforce your decision to have your child attend a school of choice.
In 1993, Colorado became the third state in the U.S. to enact a charter school law. In fall of 1993, the state's first two charter schools opened their doors.
Over the years, charter schools have fought many battles for equity, funding and even survival. Below are a few great facts about charter schools.
What is a charter school?
Charter schools are public schools.
- Charter schools in Colorado are funded in the Public-School Finance Act, along with all other public schools.
- Charter schools receive per pupil revenue (PPR) on the same basis as other public-school students enrolled in the district that granted its charter except that districts may retain up to 5% of charter school students’ PPR for actual administrative costs. Douglas County does not retain this 5%.
- Charter schools are subject to all State and Federal provisions prohibiting discrimination and must enroll students in a non-discriminatory manner.
Charter schools are open to all students. They are:
- Free – No tuition.
- Public, nonsectarian, nonreligious, non-home-based schools.
- Non-selective in enrollment. There are no admission tests or admission requirements.
- Often designed to meet the needs of under-served populations.
- Appealing to students whose needs are not being met by traditional schools.
- Frequently over-enrolled; that is, more students apply than the school can accommodate. In that event, a lottery is held to determine admission.
Charter schools are pioneers and innovators.
- Charters allow parents, teachers and educational leaders to design schools that better serve particular populations.
- Charters can limit class and school sizes. Charter designers often heed to the research that states that smaller schools are generally safer and better able to nurture a community of learners than larger schools.
- Charters select their own curriculum design. They can establish achievement-oriented cultures and choose staff to best support these structures from day one.
- Charters are mission-driven schools created by parents and educators who envision a school committed to a particular purpose and philosophy.
- The tenor of relationships between charter schools and their districts vary widely. Ultimately, accountable implementation of a charter schools’ mission and vision is what best serves students. However, accountability need not be sacrificed for the very spirit of educational innovation and flexibility that the Charter School Act was intended to foster.
Charter School Facts:
- More K-12 students are enrolled in Colorado Charter Schools than any other school district in the state:
- Colorado Charter Schools 134,000
- Denver Public Schools 88,000
- Jeffco. Public Schools 77,000
- Douglas County Schools 63,000
- Cherry Creek Schools 53,000
- There are 265 charter schools in Colorado (there were 2 in 1993).
- The percentage of public-school students attending Colorado Charter Schools during the 2021-2022 school year: 15.0%
I congratulate you on exercising your right to choose a school for your child. You have made an excellent decision by enrolling your child at Aspen View Academy. Your child will be challenged, encouraged, supported and grow in a safe, caring environment. They will know it is OK to take chances and to make mistakes. They will be taught, coached and nurtured by a dedicated and amazing staff. We will challenge your kids but will always give them the tools and resources to be successful. My goal is that your child should love coming to school because they know they belong at Aspen View Academy.
Bob Barber
Principal
| 
