Most charter schools prefer to hire certified teachers when they can, but freedom to widen the search is crucial to their staffing flexibility. As for approval by local districts, that's like telling a dieter that his meals must be approved by an eclair baker. District micromanagement is precisely what charter schools most need to get free from. A great charter school is, in effect, a one-school district. Nobody, however, is forced to sign up.
Pupils choose to come, which means charter schools are also accountable to their customers.
If a school can't attract enough students, it must close. D.C. Each previously served as assistant U.S. secretary of education.