Good U-46 decision on charter school

Good U-46 decision on charter school

This letter is in response to Richard Francke's letter of July 5. Mr. Francke, along with me and other taxpayers in the U-46 district, are always concerned how our tax dollars are being spent, but I am confused as to why he opposes the decision of the U-46 Charter School Evaluation Committee. I am quite pleased with their decision based on the facts presented, which will result in our tax dollars going to serve the needs of all of our children and not just a select few.

Here are just a few facts, which can be read on the district's home page:

The primary site (Fox River Country Day School) is located in District 300, so the Elgin Charter School Initiative should be presenting their proposal to District 300, not U-46. Thank you, Amy Kerber for pointing that out. Mr. Francke states, "The right decision was very apparent at this meeting," yet he is disappointed with the board's decision.

The Elgin Math and Science Academy would only serve students from Elgin. Section 27A-4(d) of the Charter School Law, which provides: (d) Enrollment in a charter school shall be open to any pupil who resides within the geographic boundaries of the area served by the local school board. Attendance boundaries are not permitted and the lack of transportation and emphasis on Elgin students will, in effect, create boundaries in violation of the Charter School Law.

The whole report should be read by every taxpayer to understand how and why this board came to their decision. Mr. Francke you should be pleased that they are watchdogs of your and my tax dollars. Thank you, U-46 BOE and committee.

Garrick Balk

South Elgin