Committee prepares review as local charter school debate increases
First ad hoc committee meeting slated for Tuesday, February 21
JACKSON, Tenn. – Conversations at the state level around increasing the number of privately-run charter schools in Tennessee have caused opposing groups to gather outside of meetings at the Jackson-Madison County Board of Education. District leaders have received feedback from citizens for and against application efforts by American Classical Education.
“We appreciate the passion and interests from our neighbors on both sides of this issue. We invite the community to follow the process our charter school committee takes in determining whether this latest ACAM application meets the standards set by the Tennessee Department of Education,” Chairman Pete Johnson said.
Board members learned about the fiscal impact of charter schools during a Board retreat presentation in December. Potential budget strains in the areas of maintenance, staffing, transportation, and utilities were highlighted in the Charter Fiscal Impact study.
“We look forward to sharing charter impact details with the ad hoc committee and answering any questions they may have regarding the most recent ACE application,” Chief of Staff Melissa Spurgeon said.
According to the most recently submitted application, ACAM seeks to provide a classical educational experience with an enrollment forecast of: 70% Black, 33% Economically Disadvantaged, 14% Students with Disabilities, 6% English Learners.
Stated committee member Olivia Abernathy, "We've been tasked with looking in depth at the possibility of a public charter school coming to Jackson-Madison County and asking questions on behalf of the community. Whether positive or negative, we will study from all angles the impact of a charter."
After the ad hoc committee has reviewed documents and data related to the charter school’s application, a recommendation will be made to the full Board. Board members will render a final decision by May.
