Five Florida schools are gearing up to become that state's first charter school system, and charter school expert and author Dr. Joe Nathan offered advice, and warnings:
Nathan said the schools will need to publicize their activities in the community to help familiarize residents with the charter school concept and gain their trust. Another key is to involve parents more in school events and share facilities with local groups, he said.
...He said charter schools thrive because they invert the traditional district hierarchy and make the schools, rather than the administration, the priority. "You've got to give teachers a chance to think, and plan and dream," Nathan said. "It's doable. It's not a dream, it's a reality."
...he also said there "is nothing about a charter school that guarantees success. It's an idea and opportunity, not a guarantee."
Nathan said the schools will have to pace themselves while planning their operations and exercise good bookkeeping. He also cautioned against becoming too focused on standardized test results and not emphasizing school principles with students.
Posted by kswygert at November 17, 2003 12:49 PM