US Charter Schools Web Dialogue

Monday, June 7

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Topic Brief Panelists Focus Point Discussions Related Discussions Recommended Library Items Summary

Topic Brief
In this topic we are sharing information and ideas on how to expand the charter school movement to the final nine states lacking a charter school law and ways to strengthen existing laws to support the creation of more high-quality charter schools. We also hope to hear about innovative public engagement and media-relations strategies that have been successful in creating powerful positive messages about charter schools.

Panelists
• Paula Crandall Decker, Charter School Consultant, WI Department of Public Instruction
• David Harris, Charter Schools Director, Office of the Mayor, Indianapolis, Indiana
• Lisa O'Brien, President, Coldwell Communications Group, Inc.
• Dan Quisenberry, President, MAPSA
• Gerry Vazquez, President, NY Charter School Resource Center

Focus Point Discussions
Charter School Closures According to a recent report from the Center for Education Reform, as of January 2004, 311 charter schools have closed around the nation. This number represents 9% of all charters ever opened. Why do charter schools close? What does this statistic mean for the future success and growth of the charter school movement? View Summary		Go to this Discussion

Influencing Policy Around the nation, there has been increasing interest in the charter school movement but difficulty creating stronger legislation to support its growth. What can we do to bring more political supporters into the movement? What message do we need to deliver and who specifically needs to hear it? View Summary		Go to this Discussion

Community & Media Relations How do we harness the energy of the media to our benefit? How can we reach out to the media and ensure that our message is delivered to the public? What is the most compelling research for charter school advocates to cite when talking with the media and community members? View Summary		Go to this Discussion