A One-Size-Fits-All Education?

I believe in choice when considering a school or learning situation for a child.  While most parents in our community choose the neighborhood public school for their children’s education, there are other options. 

Many parents have considered public schools outside their immediate neighborhood, private schools and even homeschooling options.  There are many reasons for choosing other options—including religious freedom, extracurricular opportunities and even child-care options.

Another option is to enroll your child in a charter school.  A charter school is a public school that receives financial support from the school district.  However, it is not necessarily operated by the school district.  Charters can be found in many school districts.  Like any option, there are pros and cons to charters, and they are not for everyone.  However, if you are looking for a change to your child’s school, it is an option to look into. 

Recently, I spoke with Barbara Black, the director of development with the Oxford Academy, a private, tuition-free charter slated to open within the Capistrano Unified School District in September.  Here is some information about that charter:

• It will serve about 500 students in grades kindergarten through eighth.  Most students will attend school daily—although there is an  independent-study program for those interested in homeschooling.
• All of the teachers will have the educational background and credentials required by the state of California for educators.
• Parents and students will sign a contract agreeing to the various guidelines of the school.  For example, parents are required to attend various meetings (such as conferences with teachers and Parent-Faculty Association meetings) in addition to volunteering a minimum of 20 hours annually to the school.  Children agree to follow the rules outlined in the school handbook, will wear uniforms and have a minimum attendance rate of 98% for the school year.  
• Music, foreign language, computer lab and after-school programs will be available to students. 
• It is hoped that parents will participate in extensive fundraising events for the extra programs. The school will also apply for specific grants for programs.

Here is my thought on the subject: If you are happy with your child’s school and, most important, if your child is content and learning, keep your child at his or her current school.  However, if you feel your child would benefit from a new environment, it would be worthwhile to look at other options, including Oxford Academy. The charter will not likely be within walking distance to your home.  And many of the kids in your neighborhood will not be there.  But I do believe it will offer a solid education for students. For more information, attend the meeting at 10 a.m. on April 30 at Church of Christ in Mission Viejo.