Charter Schools Seek To Expand as D.C. Closes Traditional Campuses

Well-positioned to pick up the slack and offer options

Three experienced charter-school operators have applied for fast-track approval to run 10 campuses serving thousands of students in the District, D.C. Public Charter School Board officials said Monday.

The applications come as the city's traditional public school system prepares to close 20 schools because of under-enrollment, which is likely to give the already fast-growing charter sector an opportunity to continue expanding.

Two operators are applying to open in fall 2014, said charter school spokeswoman Audrey Williams.