All charter school proposals are not created equal(ly). That applies similarly to developers of charter school proposals. Having been in the California charter school movement for a very long time - I can personally attest to having seen a bit of 'the good, the bad and the ugly'.
Tonight I was at a county board of education meeting where a developer was present to discuss his charter and the fact that the county staff was suggesting the board deny the charter petition. I am a huge proponent of charter schools and the need to create quality charter school options to meet the needs of all children. With that in mind - tonights board meeting was disappointing. The developer was present without community support, addressed the board only on the matter of why he personally deserved to have/run a charter school, and never once advocated for students. He missed the focus of why we create charter schools.
After my initial disappointment, I looked forward to his communication and interaction with the board as staff prepared to present their report. The developer walked out of the room as soon as staff walked up to the microphone. The charter petition was left without someone to represent its concerns and the board was confused and offended by the gesture. At least two board members had prepared questions and communication for the developer and were left without response. Unfortunately, this developers actions influence this boards perceptions of charter school developer/operators.
My thought, and I welcome yours as well - is that each charter and each charter developer (operator) that come into contact with district and/or county boards and staff should be cautious about the legacy they leave behind. As with most battles fought - sometimes you may not win the battle, but the bigger picture is to win the war.
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