SENATE STRENGTHENS TEACHER REQUIREMENTS FOR VIRTUAL SCHOOLS

Measure requires virtual school teachers to meet public charter school requirements

AUGUSTA–Today, in a 21-14 vote, the Senate voted to require education standards, including teacher qualification, at virtual charter schools meet the same requirements as teachers at public charter schools.

“This is common-sense legislation to safeguard our children’s education,” said Senator Rebecca Millett of Cape Elizabeth, the Senate Chair of the Education Committee. “Like any Maine public school teacher, teachers at virtual charter schools should also be certified in Maine in accordance with state law. Certification ensures that those teaching Maine children have proper training, education, and professional teaching experience.”

A 2011 report by the Center for Research and Educational Outcomes at Stanford University found that students in online charter schools had smaller gains in reading and math than their peers in traditional charter schools and public schools.

“This is another example of ensuring good accountability,” said Senate Majority Leader Seth Goodall of Richmond. “We are policy makers and we should not be loosening standards on matters as important as our children’s education.”

The bill, LD 481, “An Act To Amend the Laws Governing Virtual Public Charter Schools”, faces further votes in the House.

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