North Carolina Increases Education Opportunity
July 18, 2016
WASHINGTON, DC — Legislative action in North Carolina will result in new and expanded opportunities for students, thanks to the creation of a new Achievement School District and expanded resources for teachers, students and families.
The state’s 2016-17 FY budget provides for an increase in the statewide opportunity scholarship program, expanding choices for children who need them most. Within a decade, more than 35,000 students will be able to access new scholarships.
The budget also provides for teacher pay increases and allows schools to reduce class size in the early grades.
Recognizing that failing schools can be turned around, State Representative Rob Bryan spearheaded an effort to create the Achievement School District (ASD). The ASD will allow newly constituted schools to take the place of failing neighborhood schools, serving families without the economic means to pick up and move to a school with a better track record.
“This is an encouraging step forward for innovation and opportunity in the Tar Heel state education system, acknowledging that a one-size-fits-all approach simply won’t work for all students,” said Jon Hage, CER Chairman and Founder and CEO Charter Schools USA.
About the Center for Education Reform
Founded in 1993, the Center for Education Reform aims to expand educational opportunities that lead to improved economic outcomes for all Americans — particularly our youth — ensuring that the conditions are ripe for innovation, freedom and flexibility throughout U.S. education.
As a non-partisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to great opportunities for all children, students and families, The Center for Education Reform does not endorse candidates or take political positions, but we will always recognize and applaud when someone takes a step to advance sound education policies.
