Atlanta
(2012-02-13)
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The measure follows a Georgia Supreme Court ruling which declared charter schools created by a state commission unconstitutional. Federation president Verdaillia Turner is concerned the proposed amendment would remove power from local school boards. Turner also believes it would allow funding that should go to local school districts to flow to charter schools instead.
"Some people are relentless zealots about grabbing power and grabbing money and it's not about educating children."
But supporters say language about funding for the charter schools has been removed from the proposed amendment. Tony Roberts with the Georgia Charter Schools Association says if it's approved by the legislature it would simply let voters decide the issue.
"To let the people say do you think local school boards should have absolute authority over education in K-12. My position is they should not have absolute power."
Last week, the proposed amendment fell 10 votes short of the 2/3 vote it needs to pass the Georgia House. However, Lawmakers could reconsider the amendment as early as this week.
The legislation is also opposed by the Professional Association of Georgia Educators. Georgia Association of Educators says it's still analyzing the legislation and has not taken an official position. The Georgia Federation of Teachers is affiliated with the AFL-CIO. © Copyright 2012, WABE
