Number 9, March 24, 2009

Latest News on the Senate Charter Bill

As you know tomorrow morning, the Senate E-12 Education Committee will hear S.F. 867 - the Charter School Reform and Accountability Bill.

Over the last few days there have been extensive conversations and meetings with Senator Saltzman, Chair of the Charter School Subcommittee. These conversations have been open and honest, constructive and productive in addressing the full range of issues that are contained in the bill.

Progress in Discussions ….

Significant progress has been made on a broad array of issues; while other provisions still are problematic, what is important for everyone to know is that there is an ongoing dialogue being conducted in a calm and respectful atmosphere.

What to expect tomorrow….

• Expect that there will be attempts to remove any of the problematic provisions that still may be contained in the bill. (This is the goal of the MN Association of Charter Schools)

• Expect that there will be some issues that may very well be deferred for consideration at a later time in the legislative process as language has not been finalized.

• Expect that there will be amendments that will bring the bill more in line with the provisions found in the House bill – although the actual language may not be necessarily the same as the House. (These things will be negotiated in conference committee)

• Expect that the bill will be passed for consideration in the Omnibus Bill.
  
  
  

Eugene Piccolo

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