National Alliance plans appeal after court ruling on West Virginia charter schools

The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools has announced its intention to appeal a recent decision by the Eighth Judicial Circuit Court in Kanawha County, West Virginia, which questioned the constitutionality of public charter schools in the state.

In a statement released after the ruling, the organization said, "To say that we are deeply disappointed in the ruling would be an understatement. We believe that every child in the Mountain State should be able to access a school that is best for them within a public school system that includes charter public schools. The State Constitution, the law and facts strongly support our position."

The group emphasized its ongoing commitment to supporting charter schools in West Virginia. "This decision does not mark the end of our commitment to West Virginia. We remain steadfast in our partnership with the communities served by public charter schools and we will not waver in our efforts until we safeguard access to public charter schools so that every family in West Virginia can choose the right public school for their child," according to their statement.

Charter schools currently serve nearly 4 million students across more than 8,000 institutions nationwide, including operations in 47 states and Washington D.C., according to data from the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools. The organization argues that families and students in West Virginia should have equal opportunities to attend these innovative educational institutions.

"We expect our partners will file an appeal to ensure public school students attending and educators working at public charter schools are recognized under West Virginia law and their rights protected," stated representatives from the National Alliance.

Public charter schools operate as tuition-free options open to all students. They are designed with flexibility intended to meet community needs while being held accountable for academic results and transparency standards. Over two-thirds of students enrolled nationally come from low-income backgrounds or Black or Latino communities.

Research cited by supporters indicates that charter schools can improve student outcomes and help prepare young people for college and careers.

For further information about national advocacy efforts regarding charter schools, visit www.publiccharters.org.