Charter school advocates rally as debate begins on education bill

By James Vaznis, Globe Staff

About 100 parents, students, and other supporters of charter schools rallied today on Beacon Hill as the House prepared to debate a bill that would expand charter schools.

Gathered on the Grand Staircase at the State House, parents and children shared their stories of academic success at various charter schools across the state.

"It's been a magical experience for them," Debbie Kimball said of her children's experience at a Cape Cod charter school. "Teachers teach in a way that students don't even realize they are learning ... I can't believe my kids know what they know in the sixth grade."

Kevin Andrews, president of the Massachusetts Charter Public School Association, said his group would monitor the House proceedings carefully. Advocates do not want changes to state law that would compromise charter schools' independence or funding.

The legislation before the House would double the number of charter school seats in school districts with the lowest MCAS scores. The bill would also give school local superintendents and the state commissioner of education extraordinary powers to overhaul failing schools, such as forcing teachers and administrators to re-apply for their jobs or extending the school day.