Postion Statement on Charter Schools

Whereas, MASSP, representing approximately 2,000 middle and high school principals and assistant principals, has consistently supported educational choice as embodied in magnet schools, academies, alternative schools, and schools within
schools;

Whereas, MASSP accepts the concept of charter schools in its broadest sense as an opportunity for all children to learn in ways that best meet their abilities and needs;

Whereas, Public education assures that our children will achieve a place within the competitive social, political, and economic structure of our country;

Whereas, The federal and state governments insure that a free public education remain a priority;

Whereas, Students attending elementary, middle level, and high school, and students receiving special education require different amounts of financial support; funding for schools being established that do not offer a comprehensive K-12 program
should reflect these differences

RESOLVED by the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals that:

• "Educational choice" must be defined in the broadest terms as a means of increasing educational
  opportunities for all children to learn in ways that meet their needs and abilities.
• Charter schools accepting public funds should be accountable to the same public agency and held to at
  least the same accountability requirements as non-charter public schools.
• Management companies of charter schools must be held to the same accountability requirements, including
  FOIA, and be part of the oversight requirements as non-charter public schools.
• All charter schools should be required to follow the same mandates, including the selection, admissions
  and retention of all students, the licensing and certification of all professional staff, and the participation in all state and/or district
  assessment programs.
• Funding for non-charter public schools should never be reduced either to establish or to support charter schools.
  
• Charter schools receiving public funds should never be allowed to discriminate on the basis of race,
  gender, socioeconomic status, or disability, and shall provide equal access to all students.
  
• Charter schools should not use public funds to advance religious or political doctrines that violate
  constitutional prohibitions.
• Cooperation between and among all public schools including charter schools must be maintained to ensure
  that innovations stemming from educational choice may benefit all students.
• The expansion of charter schools in Michigan beyond the 150 cap should be limited and not go beyond 2000.
  

Approved by the MASSP Board of Directors November 27, 2000