Kentucky Supreme Court reviews case on charter school funding

The Kentucky Supreme Court is set to hear a case that could determine the future of public charter school funding in the state. The decision will address whether public charter schools are entitled to receive public education dollars under the Kentucky Constitution.

Starlee Coleman, CEO of the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, commented on the significance of the case. “This case isn’t about politics. It’s about kids, and the Kentucky Constitution is on their side. Public charter schools are public schools. They serve families who need better options, follow the same accountability rules as every other public school, and use existing public education dollars to deliver stronger outcomes for students. The Kentucky Constitution calls for an efficient system of common schools. That means schools that serve the public, spend wisely, and put children first. Public charter schools do all three. The law is clear, the need is urgent, and the promise of a better education for every Kentucky child is within reach.”

Public charter schools have operated in the United States for over three decades and currently educate 3.8 million students across 8,150 schools nationwide—representing 7.6% of all public school students and 8.1% of all public schools. A significant portion of these students come from low-income backgrounds or are Black or Latino.

Charter schools operate as tuition-free public institutions open to all students but are granted more flexibility than traditional public schools to meet student needs; this flexibility comes with increased oversight and accountability.

The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools advocates for policies supporting growth, equitable funding, access to facilities, and innovation among charter schools. More information about their mission can be found at www.publiccharters.org.