Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Chartering (2016)

Twenty-five years ago on June 4, at 9:05 p.m., Minnesota Governor Arne Carlson signed the first charter school bill into law as part of a larger Omnibus Education Funding Bill.   Today nearly three million students attend 6800 charter public schools in 43 states, District of Columbia, Guam, and even Alberta, Canada.

This is a good time to remember the Minnesota pioneers and bipartisan lawmakers who made this happen.  DFL Governor Rudy Perpich got the ball rolling with post secondary options and open enrollment.  Chartering pioneers include Ted Kolderie, Joe Nathan, Commissioner of Education Tom Nelson, the Citizens League, and its then Executive Director Curt Johnson.  DFL Representative Becky Kelso was an extraordinary champion as the bill’s lead House author.  Conference Committee members who supported chartering were Senators Ron Dicklich,  Gen Olson (Republican lead), Sandra Pappas, Gary DeCramer, and Greg Dahl; and Representatives Ken Nelson, Becky Kelso and Gary Schafer.  Special shout outs go to Senate Counsel Betsy Rice, Rep. Charlie Weaver and Speaker of the House Bob Vanasek.

Chartering is about opportunity for children and families.  That’s something to celebrate!

Media

Charter school movement 25 years old, continues to grow – Shoreview Press

Celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Charter Schools in Nashville! – National Alliance for Public Charter Schools

The Evolution of the ‘Chartered School’ – Education Week

At 25th Anniversary Marker, Author of First Charter School Law Reflects – Education Week

For Charter Schools, Look Back to Look Ahead – OP Education

After 25 Years, What’s Next For Charter Schools? – WEBZ Chicago