Arguments Against Charter Schools

Charter schools are publicly funded, privately run schools, created in an attempt provide an alternative to America’s failing public school system. They are often referred to as ‘public schools of choice,’ and enable parents to have variety when it comes to their child’s education without having to pay tuition. Charter schools have more freedom when it comes to curriculum and teaching styles and may be run by non-profits, universities, and government entities. Proponents of charter schools argue that competition and variety in the school system will lead to an overall increase in quality; charter schools are supposed to promote innovative teaching solutions to the problems experienced in regular public schools. Opponents argue that capitalism

The most repeated argument in favour of charter schools, is that competition will increase the overall quality of schools. Charter schools will try new, innovative teaching techniques and if they do not work, that school will get bad reviews and shut down; charter schools that have successful systems wills get more students and therefore more funding. The market will control the school system. Liberalist ideologies agree with concept as it promotes market competition as method of quality and quantity control. Charter schools have also been lauded as champions of equal opportunity; they enable all Americans to have the freedom of choice with their child’s education without having to pay the tuition that comes with private schools. Students are admitted through an entrance lottery that provides unbiased selection of students. This is an important aspect of New Liberalism. The government provides assistance in the form of funding for these schools, therefore providing equal opportunity for all students to succeed in the education system. Some also appreciate the freedom of curriculum these schools provide. Charter schools are exempt from the strict curricular requirements that contribute to the poor reputation of American public schools. Religious ideals can be taught so long as they are not described as such. Some charter schools have been known to teach children to be skeptical of scientific theories such as evolution and question the validity of discoveries controversial to the religious community, such as fossils. This aligns with religious fundamentalism that promotes reintegration of religion into our public