Victory for Students and Families: Charter Public Schools Ruled Constitutional

For Immediate Release | October 25, 2018

Contact: Maggie Meyers, 724-263-9826 or maggie@wacharters.wpenginepowered.com

Washington Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Students and Families; Takes Step Forward in Closing the Opportunity Gap

Seattle, WA — Washington State Charter Schools Association (WA Charters) CEO Patrick D’Amelio shared the following statement in response to the state Supreme Court’s ruling that determined that charter public schools are a constitutional part of Washington’s public education system:

Today’s ruling is a victory for the students of Washington state, a win for public education, and a big step forward in the fight to close the opportunity gap that persists in our state. The Washington Supreme Court has given 3,400 students and their families from across our state new hope by affirming that charter public schools will continue to be a valuable part of our public education system.

We want to thank every charter public school, student, parent, educator, and advocate for their energy and support, and we look forward to continuing to increase access to free, innovative, high-quality public school options for Washington students.

Washington state is a global leader across many sectors—from agriculture to technology to aerospace—and yet we continue to lag significantly behind when it comes to public education. Today’s decision marks an important step forward for Washington. Charter public schools are constitutional, and they are working well, particularly for students from underserved families and communities.

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