Charter Schools in Florida:

When the “Dream” Turns Into a Nightmare

“…Although free from many of the rules and regulations that district schools must abide by, as public schools, Florida charter schools are not exempt from statutes related to civil rights, health, safety, and student welfare. In addition, “Charter schools are also responsible for the provisions outlined in the Sunshine Laws governing public records; public meetings and records; public inspection; and penalties related to these violations” (Bailey et al, 2002, p. 193). In other words, charter schools are obligated by law to be transparent in all their operations.…”

“…Florida's charter school law, passed in 1996, was intended to create innovative educational programs by removing excessive regulation (Bailey, Lavely, & Wooley-Brown, 2002). The law required charter schools to fulfill various goals: (a) improve student learning, (b) increase opportunities for children, (c) create new professional opportunities for teachers, (d) establish a new form of school accountability, and (e) encourage innovative learning methods.…”