Public charter schools across Alabama are showing how innovative approaches to education can get tremendous results for students. These schools continue to offer strong education opportunities for families from all walks of life. But even with their success, they face huge challenges because of the funding gap that leaves them at a disadvantage compared to district schools. Thankfully, Alabama can close this gap.
Because they do not receive local tax money, public charter schools are able to rely only on state and federal funds. This creates a funding gap that makes it hard for them to grow, offer the latest tools, and enhance school facilities. While public charter schools have been doing well to this point, if funding keeps falling short, it will be harder for them to keep up their excellent work.
Alabama students and families deserve better.
Ivy Classical Academy in Prattville is one example of how public charter schools are making a difference. At Ivy Classical, where I serve as Head of School, we work hard to make sure students get a classical education that focuses on great works of literature, art and music. Families from all kinds of backgrounds – homeschooling, private schools, and traditional public schools – choose Ivy Classical because they want a structured, challenging and supportive learning space. Our teachers build strong academic skills through methods like phonics while also teaching values like kindness, respect and politeness. This creates a welcoming place where students thrive. Visitors often note our school’s joyful environment.
The success at Ivy Classical is possible because of the freedom that comes with being a public charter school. This flexibility lets us stick to our classical teaching style and keep classrooms led by teachers – something that’s not always possible in traditional public schools. But the lack of local funding makes it tough to maintain our high standards and improve our facilities, a challenge that’s faced by public charter schools all over Alabama.
In more than a decade starting and leading public charter schools, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful a classical education can be. These experiences have shown me that classical education can succeed in many different communities, giving families more choices outside of traditional public schools.
But for public charter schools to keep offering these choices, they need fair funding. That’s why I am asking lawmakers to provide supplemental funding that the Alabama Legislature has generously provided in the past. More support would help countless schools like Ivy Classical grow, reach more students, and give families more educational options. It would also help reduce the load on traditional public schools by offering more choices for families.
The Alabama Legislature should act decisively on this issue. The reason is simple: An investment in our charter schools is an investment in Alabama’s future.
Dr. David Withun is the Head of School at Ivy Classical Academy in Prattville, Ala. He has more than 10 years of experience starting and leading public charter schools, with a focus on classical education.
The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of 1819 News. To comment, please send an email with your name and contact information to [email protected].
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