Third Annual “Charters at the Capitol” celebrates school choice, empowers students and families
Today, public charter-school leaders and advocates from every corner of Arizona turned out for the third annual “Charters at the Capitol” – a day-long celebration of Arizona’s charter movement and its vital, growing role in strengthening public K-12 education.
Charter leaders representing students and families from every legislative district in Arizona participated in the event, meeting with Governor Ducey and dozens of legislators. Additionally, 2016 Charter Teacher of the Year Richelle Lewis, of American Leadership Academy-Queen Creek, made a presentation to the Senate Education Committee.
Below is a statement from Eileen Sigmund, President and CEO of the Arizona Charter Schools Association:
“For the past two decades, public charter schools have become a preferred choice for Arizona families and students seeking a high-quality public education. Recent data shows Arizona charter enrollment stands at a record high, with 180,000 students attending 547 public charter schools across the state. This kind of growth is only possible if you’re providing students and families with a quality product.
“Every one of these students and families has a unique story. The Arizona Charter Schools Association, through events such as “Charters at the Capitol,” is committed to highlighting the real people behind the numbers – bringing together charter leaders, students and families from across Arizona as they share their own stories of charters changing lives. Just as important, it is a critical platform for Arizonans to meet face-to-face with their elected representatives as we relay a unified message: Now is the time that Arizona reward high-performing schools; support quality education options for all; and truly fund what works.
“We are grateful to have had this opportunity to make the case for Arizona charter schools, and we thank Gov. Ducey, our legislators and charter leaders and advocates to participate in making ‘Charters at the Capitol’ a great success.”
