The only organization dedicated solely to helping state boards advance equity and excellence in public education.

January 2017Volume 17, No. 1
Charter Schools


This issue of The State Education Standard offers a timely, thoughtful look at the role of state boards of education in public charter schooling. Authors in this issue urge state boards—24 of which have some authority to authorize charter schools—to think more systematically about how charter schools fit into their overall vision for education and offer guardrails for decision making.

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Editor’s Note

From the President’s Pen

News & Notes

We, the Media

NCOSEA Voice

On the Agenda

 

Charter Schools: The Landscape and the Horizon
Although still a small share of public education, the sector is growing, and several challenges loom ahead.
By Bryan Hassel

Encouraging Districts and Charters to Link Arms to Solve Problems
District-charter collaboration can help turn around low-performing district schools and increase charter quality.
By Robin Lake

Vive la Difference: What It Means for State Boards to Embrace Two Models for Public Education
Two systems for delivering public education, two systems for state accountability.
By Andy Smarick

Charter Schools and Democratic Accountability
There can be no strong accountability at charter schools without strong oversight of public officials.
By Jeffrey R. Henig

Who Watches the Watchers? How States Evaluate Charter School Authorizers
More state boards and departments are getting serious about authorizer accountability.
By Nelson Smith

A Smarter Direction for Charter Schools
Teacher voice and a focus on diversity are key to fulfilling the promise of charters.
By Rick Kahlenberg and Halley Potter

Charter Schools: A Critical Appraisal
By staying engaged in charter oversight, state boards can ensure that these schools improve their record for equity and excellence. By Samuel Henry




Featured Items

Multiracial group of teachers walking in school hallway. Image credit: iStock i

Strengthening the Principal Pipeline through State Leadership Academies

Missouri, Delaware, and North Carolina have developed evidence-based professional learning for current and prospective school leaders to increase their effectiveness and reduce turnover.
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State Advances in Early Childhood Education Seed Plans for 2024

In 2023, several states made significant strides toward universal pre-K, increased funding and support for early educators, and improved literacy and math instruction.
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Curriculum That Counts

Authors in this issue of the Standard draw lessons from a spectrum of state policies that are being used to increase the adoption of high-quality curriculum.

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