From in person to online: See how charter schools made the switch

Aug 24, 2020 | Blog

When school buildings around the state closed in March, students in charter public schools kept learning. With an education model that is flexible and student-centered, charter schools are well-positioned to respond rapidly to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our school very fluidly moved into virtual school,” said Ayanna L. Gore, Executive Director at Summit Sierra. “Being a school that’s already one-to-one computers, our curriculum already being online and having a platform, we had the tools available and we spent a lot of time supporting our students socially, emotionally and academically.”’

Free, public, and open to all, Washington charters offer low-income families and global majority students high-quality, equitable school options so families can find the right fit for their child’s needs, interests, and learning style. Charter public school leaders are prepared to continue offering a high-quality education to students, with a continued focus on remote learning at many schools.

“Because charter public schools have flexibility with their curriculum, scheduling, and the roles that teachers play we were able to pivot the student learning experience quickly when COVID-19 hit and shut down schools across our state,” said Rekha Bhatt, Chief Program Officer at WA Charters.” 

With one of the strongest charter school laws in the nation, the Washington charter school sector is intentionally flexible and responsive.

“As a legislator I supported charter schools because it provided an option for students that don’t fit into the cookie-cutter, traditional public education system. “Charter schools are an equity issue because there are a lot of kids of color that learn differently, that have different supports at home and charters provide an option for some of those students,” said Rep. Eric Pettigrew. 

Washington charter public schools continue to fulfill their promise to provide equitable, high-quality school options for more students and families – no matter what. 

“Public charter schools are constantly adapting current teaching methods so students are better prepared for the new world,” Yaneth Esqueda, parent of a Rainier Prep graduate.

Schools are still accepting students for the 2020-21 school year. For information on enrollment, visit wacharters.org/explore-school/