L.A. Unified explores possibility of becoming an all-charter district
Converting the nation’s second-largest school system into an all-charter district is a long-shot—one that requires state approval and support from a majority of teachers.
But members of the Los Angeles Unified Board of Education said they were exploring all options -- even those that are unlikely -- as the district contends with a charter school expansion plan spearheaded by the Broad Foundation. The plan seeks to enroll more than half the district’s students in charter schools over the next eight years.
On Tuesday, a board committee will review a report that outlines the process for becoming an entirely charter school district.
At a later, separate meeting, board members will continue to define the characteristics they are seeking in a superintendent.
Board member Richard Vladovic said chances of L.A. Unified becoming an all-charter district were “slim and none.” Vladovic said the committee discussion is intended to start a conversation about how L.A. Unified can enjoy some of the flexibility from state regulations that is currently provided to charters.
“The entire purpose is to explore things," Vladovic said. "We’re not voting on policy. We’re gathering information. These committees are trying to really peel the onion back and look at issues in depth. Some you’ll never be able to use, but it’s certainly good to start that discussion about how many regulations we have." Charters are publicly funded, independently operated and free from some regulations that govern traditional schools. Most are non-union.
The district is looking for ways to stem declining student enrollment from a range of factors, including charter school growth.
Critics of the projected $490-million charter expansion plan argue that it threatens the sustainability of the district and could hurt its ability to serve students. Supporters say the plan seeks to improve options for parents who are not satisfied with traditional public schools.
Any decision on whether to begin the process for becoming a charter district would require a board vote.
The school district would then need more than 50% of its teachers to sign a petition favoring the change. It would also have to find alternative options for students who don’t want to attend a charter school, according to the report.
State Supt. of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson and the state Board of Education must separately approve petitions for all-charter districts.
California has seven charter school districts that serve between 100 and 1,500 students. The state board has oversight of those districts.
The Times receives funding for its digital initiative, Education Matters, from the California Endowment, the Wasserman Foundation and the Baxter Family Foundation. The California Community Foundation and United Way of Greater Los Angeles administer grants from the Broad Foundation to support this effort. Under terms of the grants, The Times retains complete control over editorial content.
For more education news, follow @zahiratorres on Twitter.L.A. Unified explores possibility of becoming an all-charter district - LA Times:
