We, the undersigned Douglas County School Board candidates, participated in a Parent Forum on September 25, 2013, where we heard feedback from approximately 75 parent and community members. It was a powerful opportunity to gather valuable input from our community. Out of this conversation, it became clear that a need exists to bridge the gap between our neighborhood and charter school families. In particular, it was requested that we reach out to charter school families and provide a clear statement of our commitment to these valued members of our community. This document has been developed to begin a much-needed process to accomplish this task. Our Commitment to Douglas County School District Families To ensure the health and viability of our Douglas County community and public school system and in order to address a current division that has developed in our county, we will strive to bridge the gap between neighborhood and charter schools, and establish a more cohesive relationship between these two vital components of our public education system in Douglas County. To accomplish this, we pledge to: • Provide equitable funding between charter and neighborhood schools, with charter schools continuing to receive 100% of the Per Pupil Revenue provided to DCSD for students in charter schools; • Include charter schools in mill levy overrides at the same rate as our neighborhood schools; • Establish a District or Board committee to work on bridging the communication gap and helping neighborhood and charter school families to: o Better understand everyone’s values and perspectives. o Provide opportunities to all students, including exploring transportation options for all students who may choose to attend a school outside of their home transportation zone. o Develop effective tools for collaboration among all of Douglas County Schools to provide the best strategies and opportunities for all students. We must share strengths and successes among schools so that we can provide the best educational opportunities for all students. • Commit to open, honest and transparent dialogue and collaboration with the whole school community as we are all critical to making Douglas County strong. We understand that a community divided will not serve our students well. Our primary goal is to reestablish community engagement to provide the strongest schools possible for all our students and for our community. We promise to acknowledge, value and collaborate with all members of our community. Sincerely, Barbra Chase, District B, DCSD School Board Candidate Julie A. Keim, District D, DCSD School Board Candidate Bill Hodges, District E, DCSD School Board Candidate Ronda Scholting, District G, DCSD School Board Candidate
Posted on: Mon, 30 Sep 2013 16:25:15 +0000
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