And successful choice plans also include measures to inform parents of their options, such as school tours, parent liaisons, and choice fairs where schools publicize their offerings, Raywid says. Others, however, are concerned that the trends toward more options and greater choice represent a shift with dangerous philosophical overtones. More and more, they say, education is seen as a private good, with parents positioned as consumers of whatever public education best suits their needs. Losing credence is the argument that public education is provided for the common good, and that students should share some common experiences in common settings. Even supporters of choice have some nagging doubts.
Most experts predict the latter.
Ironically, the threat of vouchers may result in more support for choice, but choice limited to the public school system. It seems clear that, far from running out of steam, the trend toward more options and parental choice is as strong as it has ever been. Typically, charter schools are started by groups of parents and teachers who want to create alternatives to the programs offered by the local district. Charter schools receive public funding and, to maintain their charter, they must meet agreed-upon performance goals. References American Federation of Teachers.