I think charter schools offer the potential to be a tremendous good for society (full disclosure: I work in a charter school). They have the chance to try innovative practices that if successful can hopefully be transferred to our traditional public schools. No, they aren’t perfect, but I firmly believe that we can and should be an important part of addressing what ills our public education system (feel free to agree/disagree in the comments).

That’s why I was excited to read about President Obama declaring this week National Charter School week. From the proclamation:

At the heart of who we are as Americans is the simple but profound idea that no matter who you are, what you look like, or where you come from, if you work hard and meet your responsibilities, you can succeed. Our Nation can only realize this idea through the guarantee of a world-class education for every child. During National Charter Schools Week, we pay tribute to the role our Nation’s public charter schools play in advancing opportunity, and we salute the parents, educators, community leaders, policymakers, and philanthropists who gave rise to the charter school sector.

As independent public schools, charter schools have the ability to try innovative approaches to teaching and learning in the classroom. This flexibility comes with high standards and accountability; charter schools must demonstrate that all their students are progressing toward academic excellence. Those that do not measure up can be shut down. And those that are successful can provide effective approaches for the broader public education system. They can show what is possible — schools that give every student the chance to prepare for college and career and to develop a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.

Americans pursue individual success, but we also understand that we have a stake in each other. If we make an investment in every child, then all our children will enjoy a stronger Nation and a brighter world. This week, let us do our part to ensure our young people can go as far as their passions and hard work will take them, and recommit to restoring the American dream for generations to come.

To put it in perspective, the Standford CREDO study this past year found that Tennessee charters have some of the highest growth in our country. Our charter school students gain an additional 86 days in reading and 72 days in math. We tied with Rhode Island with the largest gains in reading.

Happy Charter School Week!

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