As a parent, I searched, visited and researched schools for middle school for my daughter. I wanted somewhere that would nurture and prepare her for the next levels, high school then college. Although she was out off elementary school, I wanted a school that would be an extension of the values and habits that I taught her at home. I had public, private and charter schools on my list. Out of the four school, I chose a charter school. I was able to "check off" more required items off my list with the charter school. Some of the things that drew me were the structure of the school, the requirements of structure for the students, the innovative ways of teaching the standards, the family feel due to the student population size, and everyone seemed genuinely happy. The atmosphere was always welcoming when I visited.
Now, as a teacher, I know there was some work that went into this wonderful atmosphere. Teachers had longer hours. They were also available by phone for students who needed help while doing homework. The days started early and ended late, one year the hours were 7:35-5:00 for the students. The teachers were dedicated and appeared very knowledgeable of their subjects and research-based learning strategies. I was very pleased with my decision of my daughter attending a charter school.
Fast-forwarding, I have not thought about actually working at a charter school. I had nothing against them, I am after all, a charter school parent. I just never thought about working at on until recently. Last school year our school district voted and was awarded to become a full-fledged charter system to be fully implemented in the 2017-2018 school year. Teachers received their contracts and when comparing mine to previous years, there was only one difference in the wording, probationary period. The research on exactly what that means is still ongoing. One misconception that I had of charter schools was that teachers did not receive year-to-year contracts and therefore could be let go at anytime. I found that not to be from conversations that I have as with some charter school teachers. I am very curious to know what out new charter school system holds in store for the students and teachers.
I am glad you are having a great experience with your child's charter school. I wrote a post about charter schools as well. This post explained the inequity of the charter system and how data shows charter schools are not doing better or "beating the odds" more so than the public schools according the standardized testing. My concern with charter schools is the placement, demographic make-up, and accountability. In reference to contracts, my charter school gives "At-Will" contracts. Therefore, a teacher or administrator can be let go at any time without any explanation. This was alarming to me my first couple of years; however, I have not seen this clause used during my time of employment.
ReplyDeleteMy school is also a charter school that uses "at-will" contracts. These contracts are very frightening, but I have yet to see that clause be used either. While I have seen some teachers let go, it is only after a long process that provides the teacher with professional development plans and specific goals to work on. While the goals provided may seem subjective, they are always backed up with specific TKEs exemplars and rubrics. Even so, I do feel like the staff may be more hesitant to speak their mind than they would at a public school with more job security.
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