Based on our personal experience, I will say that it is a wonderful option for everyone in the state. When we met for social outings, I was amazed at the diversity of the student population in the metro area. I was expecting a bunch of white, right wing christians but found all races and types of kids there. I was blown away by the number of African American families who were escaping failing schools in atlanta. For many families, this school was, for lack of a better word, a godsend. Many of the kids were facing peer pressure and bullying at their public schools and the families could not afford the resources to homeschool them adequately. This option provided curriculum, books and daily lessons along with an actual teacher that conferenced every couple weeks and was available more often if needed. They take the CRCT. The teachers are great. There is accountability. It is not for everyone, but it does work well for quite a number of families.

I understand that the school was developed by a for-profit corporation, but they work really hard and should be able to turn a profit like any other company. The suppliers of books, desks, sounds systems, and all that stuff that the brick and mortar schools buy to teach our kids can turn a profit, so what’s the big deal?

I did not wish to teach my kids at home anymore, and we could afford to move to Decatur. Not everyone is that lucky. I believe there needs to be a work around for state charters that bypasses the school boards. This is really a non-issue in Decatur where our schools are doing such a great job, but for many other families, this is an important issue.

Just my 2 cents, hope you guys keep an open mind and consider voting to help those kids outside of Decatur.