Statement: DFER-NJ on Proposed NJ State Board of Education Regulations on Public Charter Schools

Newark, NJ — In response to continued debate around proposed New Jersey State Board of Education regulations on public charter schools, DFER New Jersey State Director Paula White released the following statement:

“Democrats for Education Reform understands that the fight for high-quality public school choice is a crucial part of a larger, comprehensive effort to champion ALL of America’s public school children, irrespective of their background or circumstance. Families deserve a public charter school environment that prioritizes children’s success and proposed regulatory changes at the state level that reflect this priority. Ongoing repetition of misinformation and half-truths by adult-focused special-interest groups does not alter the facts — great public schools change lives.  We see evidence of this in places like Newark, New Jersey, where the city’s public charter schools make up the 2nd highest-performing public charter school sector in the country, successfully preparing children of all backgrounds for college and careers. It would be unconscionable not to support these and other great public schools — both public charter and traditional district schools —  that serve as gateways to more children achieving the American dream. We will continue to respect and support parents who choose public charter schools for their children, while also continuing to support a regulatory environment that provides robust safeguards and standards to ensure a high-quality education for children in these settings. This is our charge; our children deserve nothing less.”

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