Download the Full Position Statement Here (2017)
The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) vigorously supports educational reforms within the public schools which promote rigorous learning standards, strong educational outcomes, shared decision making, diverse educational offerings, and the removal of unnecessary administrative requirements. Charter schools, including virtual charter schools, are a form of public schools, and, as such, they are one approach many believe can be effective in achieving these objectives. However, such schools must reflect a commitment to free and universal public education, with equality of educational opportunity for all.
Regardless of who takes responsibility for the delivery of educational services for children and youth with exceptionalities - children and youth with disabilities and those who are gifted and talented - who attend a charter school, the chartering agency and authorizer, and, ultimately, the highest governmental authority, must ensure that the rights of children and youth with exceptionalities are upheld.