ACTION ALERT: Speak Out for Greater School District Transparency
Last week we asked you to take action on House Bill 14-1292 (the Student Success Act), which would provide much-needed facilities funding for charter schools. Thank you for lending your voice in support of charter school equity.
Today this same legislation is facing another hurdle, and we need you to speak up again.
Some legislators want to do away with language in this bill about school district transparency. Here's why we need this language to stay.
Special Education Services
Many school districts charge charter schools a fee for special education services, whether the school uses the services or not. It's similar to insurance where the charter school is forced to pay a fee for every student enrolled to cover the cost of services should they need them. Sounds simple enough but some districts charge charter schools high amounts for special education services, and then do not provide those services when needed.
Sharing of Mill Levy Dollars
In addition, school districts often ask voters to approve mill levy increases to local property taxes. When a mill levy increase is approved by the voters, it's natural to assume that all public schools in the district will benefit. However, this is often not the case. Some districts have refused to share these taxpayer dollars with charter schools in the district.
The transparency language in House Bill 14-1292 would require that districts be much more transparent with the public about their actions in these areas. Districts would need to justify the basis for all special education charges imposed against their charters, and they would need to report on the amount of mill levy dollars they share with their charters.
We believe district transparency is the right first step towards ensuring that all public charter school students are treated fairly and receive the same taxpayer resources as traditional public school students.
Take Action Today!
Please click the link below to urge your legislator to support the "district transparency" language in House Bill 14-1292.
Please note that this message is only being sent to House Republicans. If your state representative is a Democrat, you may not be able to send a message at this time.
Thank you for your continued support of Colorado charter schools.
