REASONS WHY WE SHOULD VOTE “NO” AGAINST STATE CONTROLLED CHARTER SCHOOLS

October 3, 2012


REASONS WHY WE SHOULD VOTE “NO” AGAINST STATE CONTROLLED CHARTER SCHOOLS


The NAACP DeKalb County Branch opposes the creation of a State Charter Schools Commission that is documented in HB797, which was passed by House and Senate.

The question on the ballot for November 6, 2012 reads:

“Shall the Constitution of Georgia be amended to allow state or local approval of public charter schools upon the request of local communities.”

Listed below are our concerns with HB 797:

• This bill creates another layer of bureaucracy that creates a dual school system competing for public school resources.

• This bill allows charter approval before obtaining proper space, equipment, and personnel.

• This bill allows recommendation of appointments to the State Charter Schools Commission from the Governor (3 appointees), President of the Senate (two appointees), Speaker of the House of Representative (two appointees).

• This bill adversely impacts the succession plan of our public schools.

o The bill does not clearly define how the charter schools will be funded.

o The bill allows charter schools students to receive 2.5% more of state funds per student than a public school student.

o We asked the question” Where will the funding come?” At this moment we are requiring our teachers to be furloughed.



Based on the concerns listed, we are encouraging DeKalb Citizens to vote “No” to State Controlled Schools on November 6, 2012.





Please contact the Branch office with any questions or concerns at 404-241-8006.