Charter Schools Asking Corbett to Divert ANOTHER $150 Million to Them from Public Schools

For many years, there have been concerns that the funding formulas are unfairly biased towards charter schools. The unfairness is particularly obvious for cybercharter schools, which don't need to pay for any bricks and mortar facilities and which are showing weak results. That is why cybercharters in PA. can afford to spend millions of dollars a year in PA. taxpayer funds to buy TV, radio and internet advertising. In response to these concerns, the Legislature finally decided to set up a committee to study the issue. We're still waiting.

Meanwhile, the charter schools are well-organized and are seeking that the Corbett administration approve the diversion of ANOTHER $100 to $150 million of state funds away from public school districts and to the charters. They are seeking that this diversion occur as an administrative action, without action by the Legislature.

Over 250 challenges have been filed with school districts by charters, saying that the school districts should change the formula concerning the monies they are paid. The school districts are fearful of the legal expenses to defend against these challenges.

http://www.mcall.com/news/nationworld/pennsylvania/mc-pa-charter-school-funding-20130814,0,4217078,full.story