Let freedom to start charter ring
State Sen. Jeff Clemens, D-Lake Worth, is proposing legislation that would prevent the establishment of charter schools in districts if the proposed school does not clearly demonstrate that it would meet needs the district does not or cannot provide. This would make it a political decision, to be made by the same local authorities who have a vested interest in keeping charter schools out.
This is another example of government assuming the decision-making authority over the will of the people — especially the parents of school-age kids. Rather than make charter schools better, this is nothing less than legislation designed to keep charter schools from being established.
The only true test for the need of an alternative educational opportunity is, and should be, the parents, whose opinions are readily observed — look at the number of charter-school applicants. It should be up to parents to determine if they are satisfied with their traditional public schools.
LARRY HORIST
BOCA RATON
