Nelson Smith Charter Quotations

The demand for charter schools is growing. If we are to continue to close the achievement gap in this country and create real opportunity for children, caps on charter schools must be lifted now.

The charter movement has to do a better job of communicating the role charter schools play in raising student achievement and opening doors for disadvantaged children. Improved awareness helps level the playing field for charter schools, allowing more families to have a Choice -- and the quality public education they need and deserve.

We realize our work is far from over. Even when we see impressive overall performance, we know that the average often includes some sub-par schools. We must continue to work even harder to uphold the charter model of excellence and accountability to improve them or weed them out. It must be about quality for our kids.

Charter schools are raising the bar about what's possible-and what should be expected--in public education. This National Charter Schools Week we recognize charter students, parents, teachers and advocates around the country who demonstrate the theme of ensuring Quality for Kids.

Charter schools are public schools. Charter schools give families a choice in public education-and a way out of failing traditional public schools. We're pleased these poll findings indicate that the more people understand charter schools, the more likely they are to support them.

Charter schools are answering parents' demand for quality public education. We are proud to recognize these distinguished policy makers for championing efforts that will help the charter movement grow in both quality and scale, ultimately opening doors for millions more children.

It's an important moment for South Carolina and for the charter movement nationally.