National Alliance for Public Charter Schools: New Iowa Law Expands Access to High-Quality Public Education Opportunities for Families
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools issued the following statement on April 22, 2024:
* * *
Todd Ziebarth, Senior Vice President of State Advocacy and Support at the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, released the following statement regarding the passage of SF 2368/HF 2543:
"We applaud the Iowa state legislature for their passage of SF 2368/HF 2543. The bill, initially introduced by Governor Reynolds, tackles three key issues: improving per-pupil funding fairness for charter school students, public charter schools' access to facilities, and increasing
... Show Full ArticleWASHINGTON, April 23 -- The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools issued the following statement on April 22, 2024:
* * *
Todd Ziebarth, Senior Vice President of State Advocacy and Support at the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, released the following statement regarding the passage of SF 2368/HF 2543:
"We applaud the Iowa state legislature for their passage of SF 2368/HF 2543. The bill, initially introduced by Governor Reynolds, tackles three key issues: improving per-pupil funding fairness for charter school students, public charter schools' access to facilities, and increasingextracurricular opportunities for charter school students.
"It is critical to achieve state funding fairness between traditional public schools and public charter schools, a challenge which many states face. This bill requires that some additional state categorical funding must follow the student to the public school, whether charter or district, he or she attends. All public school students should be entitled to a high-quality public education, and fair funding is a requirement to do so.
"Securing school facilities is also a historically challenging issue for public charter schools. This bill will create more visibility into vacant and underutilized school district facilities and prevent school districts from prohibiting sales to public charter schools.
"We will continue to work with Governor Reynolds and the Iowa legislature to ensure that public charter school students receive the full amount of public funding as their traditional public school peers."
National Alliance Stands With West Virginia Charter Schools and Families
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools issued the following statement on April 22, 2024:
* * *
Three public charter schools have sought to join a lawsuit in which charter school opponents attack the constitutionality of the Professional Charter School Board's authority to approve public charter schools in West Virginia. Simultaneously, these schools have asked the court to dismiss this unfounded lawsuit. Todd Ziebarth, Senior Vice President of State Advocacy and Support at the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, issued the following statement:
"The
... Show Full ArticleWASHINGTON, April 23 -- The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools issued the following statement on April 22, 2024:
* * *
Three public charter schools have sought to join a lawsuit in which charter school opponents attack the constitutionality of the Professional Charter School Board's authority to approve public charter schools in West Virginia. Simultaneously, these schools have asked the court to dismiss this unfounded lawsuit. Todd Ziebarth, Senior Vice President of State Advocacy and Support at the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, issued the following statement:
"TheNational Alliance for Public Charter Schools applauds the Eastern Panhandle Preparatory Academy, Workforce Initiative for Nurses Academy, and West Virginia Academy for seeking to join this litigation to protect the opportunity for families to choose high quality public charter schools in West Virginia. We hope the court grants their motion to intervene, so their important voices can be heard in this critical matter. We further urge the court to grant their motion to dismiss this lawsuit. The West Virginia charter statute does not violate the state constitution, and opponents cannot provide any facts that support their claim to the contrary.
"There are five public charter schools currently serving students and communities in West Virginia, and the Professional Charter School Board continues to successfully perform its duties and responsibilities. The court should dismiss this lawsuit and uphold the constitutionality of the West Virginia charter school law. Public charter schools are constitutional and an essential part of public education."
NJPCSA Celebrates School Library Month With an Urgent Call to Fund New Jersey's Public Charter School Facilities
HAMILTON, New Jersey, April 23 -- The New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association issued the following news release:
The New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association (NJPCSA) celebrates April's School Library Month and the tremendous contribution school libraries make towards fostering literacy and creating a lifetime love of learning. With the observation of School Library month, NJPCSA calls on Governor Murphy and the Legislature to provide public charter schools with crucial school facilities funding so that every public school can provide their students with a dedicated library.
In Governor
... Show Full ArticleHAMILTON, New Jersey, April 23 -- The New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association issued the following news release:
The New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association (NJPCSA) celebrates April's School Library Month and the tremendous contribution school libraries make towards fostering literacy and creating a lifetime love of learning. With the observation of School Library month, NJPCSA calls on Governor Murphy and the Legislature to provide public charter schools with crucial school facilities funding so that every public school can provide their students with a dedicated library.
In GovernorMurphy's FY2025 proposed budget, emergent projects and capital maintenance aid for public charter schools was reduced by $15 million dollars and the recently created Public Charter and Renaissance School Facilities Loan Program has gone unfunded.
"Libraries are cornerstone institutions in schools, playing a vital role in promoting literacy, fostering critical thinking, and providing modern technological tools and resources. Yet despite their proven impact, public charter schools across New Jersey operate without dedicated facilities funding for providing library space, denying students these resources," said Harry Lee, President and CEO of NJPCSA.
Nearly 89% of public charter schools say their schools do not have libraries or that their school libraries are not adequate, highlighting a gap in resources that impedes student access to essential educational tools. Additionally, public charter schools are forced to fund their facilities from operating budgets, spending on average $2,000 per student, funding that would otherwise be used for teacher salaries, classroom supplies, and technology.
In contrast, since 2001, New Jersey has invested over $18 billion in school construction across Schools Development Authority (SDA) districts, regular operating districts (RODs), and vocational schools to enhance infrastructure and resources, including libraries. "The lack of adequate facilities funding for essential resources like libraries, gyms, and technology labs is an inequity that public charter schools continue to face," stated TJ Best, Senior Advisor at NJPCSA. "Bridging this divide is crucial to ensure that all students, regardless of the type of public school they attend, have equal opportunities to access vital resources and flourish both academically and personally."
The absence of libraries and facilities funding is particularly felt in under-resourced communities and among students of color, who make up 91% of those attending public charter and renaissance schools in New Jersey's most challenged districts. With 76% of these students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch, the lack of financial resources within schools exacerbates educational inequities.
"In Newark, our students face numerous challenges outside the school doors. Inside, they should find a sanctuary of learning equipped with the tools they need to thrive, and libraries are essential resources in schools," said Maria Pilar Paradiso, Head of School at Link Community Charter School in Newark. "With the addition of our elementary school, the need for dedicated library space becomes even more critical, particularly given the role of early literacy in setting the foundation for lifelong learning. Providing a space specifically for our youngest students sends a message about the importance of literacy and fosters a love of reading from the moment a child first enters school."
Lee concluded, "We greatly appreciate Governor Murphy and the Legislature's efforts to address public charter schools facilities, including the creation of the facilities loan program. However, now is not the time to take our foot off the gas. We need to fund the loan program and restore funding for emergent aid. We look forward to working with elected officials over the spring to ensure the final state budget affords every student access to a safe, healthy and modern school building."
* * *
About Public Charter Schools
Charter schools are tuition-free public schools run by non-profit organizations open to all students regardless of zip code, race/ethnicity or ability level. Charter schools operate with more flexibility than traditional public schools in exchange for increased accountability and high financial, academic and managerial standards by an authorizer. A "charter" is a contract with an authorizer detailing the school's mission, program, performance goals and methods of assessments. In New Jersey, the New Jersey Department of Education serves as the sole authorizer and oversees all public charter schools in the state.
* * *
About the New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association
The New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association (NJPCSA) is the non-profit membership association that represents the state's public charter school community and, by extension, charter school students and their parents. There are currently 85 public charter schools in New Jersey serving more than 62,000 students. We are committed to advancing quality public education for New Jersey's children through the cultivation of excellent public charter schools. The Association seeks to influence legislative and policy environments, leverage collective advocacy, and provide resources to support our members in developing and operating high-quality, public charter schools.
GSSM Alumnus Joseph 'Joey' Ross Wilson III '13 Named a Recipient of Clemson University's Roaring Ten Award
COLUMBIA, South Carolina, April 23 -- The South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics issued the following news:
The South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics alumnus Joseph "Joey" Ross Wilson III '13 has been named a recipient of Clemson University's Roaring Ten Award. After graduating from GSSM, Wilson attended Clemson University and graduated in 2017 with a bachelor's degree in bioengineering.
Each year, the Clemson Young Alumni Council recognizes ten outstanding individuals for their impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic
... Show Full ArticleCOLUMBIA, South Carolina, April 23 -- The South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics issued the following news:
The South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics alumnus Joseph "Joey" Ross Wilson III '13 has been named a recipient of Clemson University's Roaring Ten Award. After graduating from GSSM, Wilson attended Clemson University and graduated in 2017 with a bachelor's degree in bioengineering.
Each year, the Clemson Young Alumni Council recognizes ten outstanding individuals for their impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropicendeavors. The honor is given to those individuals who exemplify Clemson University's core values of honesty, integrity, and respect.
"Joey is an amazing ambassador for GSSM, Clemson and our state." GSSM President Danny Dorsel said. "He continues to excel in any area where he concentrates his efforts. That type of grit mixed with talent is what makes so many GSSM alumni outstanding contributors to our society."
Following his undergraduate studies at Clemson University, Wilson pursued a master's degree in global affairs as a Schwarzman Scholar from Tsinghua University in Beijing, China, graduating in 2018. Continuing his academic journey, he obtained another master's degree in medical science (oncology) from St. John's College at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom in 2020.
Currently, he holds the position of senior expert and project manager in life sciences at Porsche Consulting, where his primary role involves providing guidance on operational and commercial strategies to major pharmaceutical and MedTech enterprises.
"Without the Governor's School, I never would have been able to achieve this honor." Said Wilson. "I really believe my GSSM experience prepared me for college & has enabled me to find the success that I have done. Being surrounded by inspiring Govies then still drives me now to learn, grow, and give back."
Miami-Dade County School Board Awarded Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting for 40th Year
MIAMI, Florida, April 20 -- Miami-Dade County Public Schools issued the following news release on April 19, 2024:
The Miami-Dade County School Board has been awarded the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International's Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting Award (COE) for high-quality financial reporting of its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023. The District's participation in the COE program for the past 40 years is a testament to its commitment to financial transparency.
By participating in the COE program, Miami-Dade
... Show Full ArticleMIAMI, Florida, April 20 -- Miami-Dade County Public Schools issued the following news release on April 19, 2024:
The Miami-Dade County School Board has been awarded the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International's Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting Award (COE) for high-quality financial reporting of its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023. The District's participation in the COE program for the past 40 years is a testament to its commitment to financial transparency.
By participating in the COE program, Miami-DadeCounty Public Schools demonstrates its commitment to financial transparency. Applicants submit their ACFR for review by a team of financial professionals, who provide feedback to improve future documents. If the report meets the requirements of the program, it may receive the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting. A district's participation in the COE program can facilitate bond-rating and continuing bond-disclosure processes.
Founded over a century ago as a nonprofit organization, ASBO International recognizes each school district's superior efforts in financial reporting to the community through outstanding reports. ASBO International is committed to providing programs, services, and a global network that promote the highest standards in school business. Its members support student achievement through effective resource management in various areas ranging from finance and operations to food services and transportation.
Joint Statement From SCUSD and UPE Regarding Compensation
SACRAMENTO, California, April 20 -- The Sacramento City Unified School District issued the following news release on April 19, 2024:
The Sacramento City Unified School District (SCUSD) and United Professional Educators (UPE) have reached an agreement on contract reopeners for the period of July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2026.
UPE represents principals, assistant principals, and various instructional and student support certificated professionals whose work is essential to helping ensure our dedicated Sac City Unified teachers have the tools and support necessary to set our students up for success.
The
... Show Full ArticleSACRAMENTO, California, April 20 -- The Sacramento City Unified School District issued the following news release on April 19, 2024:
The Sacramento City Unified School District (SCUSD) and United Professional Educators (UPE) have reached an agreement on contract reopeners for the period of July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2026.
UPE represents principals, assistant principals, and various instructional and student support certificated professionals whose work is essential to helping ensure our dedicated Sac City Unified teachers have the tools and support necessary to set our students up for success.
Thecontract includes the following compensation enhancements:
* 4% salary increase for all UPE unit members retroactive to July 1, 2023.
* 2% salary increase for all UPE unit members for the 2024-2025 school year.
* Recruitment and retention incentives ranging from 2% to 10% based on years of service.
* A formalized coaching program for new administrators effective the 2024-2025 school year.
The contract also calls for the addition of more staff to support our small innovative high schools and includes compensation language for the addition of 8 instructional days in the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 academic years, pending approval of a waiver by the State Board of Education.
"Sac City Unified is committed to recruiting and retaining great educators to serve as principals and administrators to lead and support our schools," said Lavinia Phillips, president of the SCUSD Board of Education. "This contract helps ensure that UPE members receive pay and support that is reflective of their immense value to the District."
"We are pleased to have reached this agreement with Sac City Unified School District," said Garrett Kirkland, president of UPE. "This milestone represents a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to support and empower our educational leaders, ultimately enhancing the quality of education for students across our District."
The agreed upon contract is subject to a ratification vote by UPE members and approval of the SCUSD Board of Education.
Allegany County Public Schools: Superintendent Appoints New Supervisor of Federal Programs
CUMBERLAND, Maryland, April 20 -- The Allegany County Public Schools issued the following news:
Allegany County Public Schools' Superintendent, Mr. Jeffrey Blank, has announced the appointment of the new Supervisor of Federal Programs, Mr. Daniel Clark. He will assume this role effective July 1, 2024.
Mr. Clark has been an employee of Allegany County Public Schools for over 27 years. Mr. Clark has held several positions within the system, including Title I teacher, teaching grades four and five, and being a coordinating teacher. He has also held the administration positions of Assistant Principal
... Show Full ArticleCUMBERLAND, Maryland, April 20 -- The Allegany County Public Schools issued the following news:
Allegany County Public Schools' Superintendent, Mr. Jeffrey Blank, has announced the appointment of the new Supervisor of Federal Programs, Mr. Daniel Clark. He will assume this role effective July 1, 2024.
Mr. Clark has been an employee of Allegany County Public Schools for over 27 years. Mr. Clark has held several positions within the system, including Title I teacher, teaching grades four and five, and being a coordinating teacher. He has also held the administration positions of Assistant Principalat Mount Savage School and Principal of both George's Creek Elementary and Northeast Elementary School.
Mr. Clark is a graduate of Frostburg State University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in early childhood / elementary education, and a master's degree in administration / supervision.
"I truly appreciate the wonderful connections I have forged over the years with students, teachers, staff, and communities," says Mr. Clark. "I anticipate fostering many more of these meaningful relationships as I hope to contribute to Allegany County Public Schools on a broader scale in my new role."
