Innovation in public education is a good thing. You can hear it in the voices of students from Pathways High, where diverse needs are met through personal attention and creative collaboration.
The state sends a different signal, however — especially when it comes to funding those students.
Independent charter schools like Pathways are public schools. Yet they receive thousands of dollars less per student than traditional public schools.
For kids like Gianna, Mariel and Darcel, the message is loud and clear. You are immediately worth less when your needs are different.
That’s why, in the words of Board President Julia Burns, “The state Legislature needs to get to funding parity for these schools. Bottom line.”
For more on independent public charter schools like Pathways High, read Policy Director Patrick McIlheran’s Viewpoint, “The underfunded part of Wisconsin public schooling.” For more from parents and students across the state embracing the freedom to choose the best education, see our entire collection of Choice Stories.
