Hudson
Controversy Surrounds New Charter School Opening in the Bronx
A governor-appointed board has approved dozens of charter schools over objections from state education officials. Proponents say that’s a good thing.
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Key points
- A new charter school in the Bronx is set to open this September, aiming to support working families.
- The opening has led to a lawsuit from the teachers union, arguing it violates state law.
- The debate centers on the financial impact of charter schools on traditional public schools.
NewsWK — The opening of a new charter school in the Bronx this September has sparked significant debate, particularly among educators and local parents in New York. The Strive Charter School, proposed by Eva Moskowitz of the Success Academy network, aims to operate year-round, seven days a week, to better accommodate working families. However, the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) has initiated legal action to prevent its opening, citing potential violations of state law regarding the number of charter schools.
Background on the Dispute
The conflict centers on the authority to approve charter schools in New York. Both the Board of Regents and the State University of New York (SUNY) have the power to authorize new charter schools, but SUNY can override objections from the Board of Regents. This has led to tension, especially as SUNY approved the Strive Charter School despite warnings from state education officials.
Financial Implications
- On average, charter schools receive about $16,600 per student from local school districts.
- Buffalo Public Schools allocated $195 million in the past year to support local charter schools.
- Concerns exist about how charter schools impact traditional public school budgets.
Advocates for traditional public schools argue that the proliferation of charter schools undermines resources and accountability. “Public schools are the absolute engine of a thriving democracy,” said Louis Wool, president of the Lower Hudson Council of School Superintendents.
The Strive Charter School’s Features
The new school plans to serve grades K-4 and has already received around 270 applications, with a goal of eventually enrolling 540 students. It will operate from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with core classes scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The operation will be funded through city education department resources and private donations.
What’s Next?
The NYSUT lawsuit argues that SUNY’s approval disregards the intent of the charter school cap and harms the financial stability of traditional schools. As the case unfolds, the outcome may shape the future landscape of charter schools in New York, affecting families and educators across the state.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
Based on reporting by Melissa Manno originally published by New York Focus. Read the original story.
