The original intent of the law is a good one, to foster creative and innovative ideas within the public school system. Can Do Anything School in Reno, Nev., which opened its doors in 1998, feels that charter schools are one way to contribute to innovative reforms in education. They provide new strategies in the classroom while still upholding the same state and federal requirements demanded in traditional public schools. Creatively structured curriculum, together with imaginative and resourceful teachers, provide students with the individual attention they may not receive in a traditional classroom. The I Can Do Anything School divides its semester into seven, five week blocks.
Students take two classes per day during each block.
This lets them concentrate on only two subjects for a five-week period of time. Bergin feels that students that are able to focus in this way will retain more and perform at a higher level. Not only does the school cater to its students during regular school hours, but also boasts a high school night program and even on-line education, both specifically tailored to the individual students needs. With more money being sanctioned each year, specifically for charter schools, it is obvious that they are a viable alternative in education. There are nearly 2,000 charter schools in the country, educating 500,000 students.