Lawmakers in Lansing want to help charter schools get extra money.
The legislation lets charter schools qualify for new or renewed countywide tax millage dollars. Opponents say this is essentially a way to line the pockets of for-profit charter school operators.
But Republican Representative Tim Kelly voted in favor of the bill. He says the opposition is really to charter schools in general – and he’s sick of the argument.
“This is the law. These have been around, they’re legitimate, it’s working for thousands of Michigan students and families. Stop. Stop already.”
“This is a basic fairness issue. I mean if we’re concerned about all kids and treating them fairly and equitably across the board, then what’s good for traditional schools is good for charter schools.”
Democratic Representative Darrin Camilleri (cam-uh-LAR’-ee) voted against the bill. He says charter school operators take money off the top to keep as profit.
“So in effect, SB 574 would take away millions of dollars meant for our public schools and put it right in the pockets of companies trying to profit off our kids’ education.”
Supporters say there are plenty of other sources of money for traditional public schools. They say the students in all public schools should be treated equally.