April 10, 2006	Volume 5, Number 12

Charter Schools Conference focuses on growth

Educators gathered in Appleton on April 3-4 for the sixth annual Wisconsin Charter Schools Conference, to exchange ideas and promote the importance of charter schools in the state’s public education system. State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster told the gathering that charter schools are critical to providing quality learning environments for all students. “Our charter schools create choices for parents and students within the public school system. Our conference brings together parents, educators, and students, united by our belief in charter schools as an innovative approach to public education for our young people.”

The conference was co-sponsored by the Wisconsin Charter Schools Association (WCSA) and the Department of Public Instruction. More than 40 breakout sessions offered opportunities to learn about planning, implementing, operating, and authorizing public charter schools. Tours of several of Appleton's 13 charter schools were conducted during the conference, and a special Charter Schools Fair, featuring charter school students, teachers, and charter partners, was held on April 2.

The conference offered a powerful and stimulating program based on the theme, Growth and sustainability through collaboration and partnerships. Tom Scullen, WCSA President and Appleton's school superintendent, joined Burmaster in welcoming parents, teachers, students, school officials, university and community partners, and others interested in charter schools to the conference. Burmaster has formed an Advisory Council on Charter Schools to provide support for programs that help establish strong, accountable charter schools.

“We are working hard to advance charter schools in Wisconsin,” said Burmaster. “We encourage community and parental involvement, innovative teaching practices, and accountability for results. Many of our charter schools are operated by school districts, ensuring that experienced, professional educators oversee school operations. We hold high standards for our teachers in our charter schools; and we develop programs that promote academic success and provide innovative, high-quality educational alternatives.”

28 new charter schools were added in the past year. There are now 183 charter schools operating in Wisconsin.

Last updated on 4/10/2006