KS Considers Easing the Way for Charter Schools

Only 15 of the independent schools currently function in the state

TOPEKA — Two bills in the Legislature would give charter schools greater freedom to open and operate in Kansas, where such schools have struggled to find a foothold.

Kansas has 15 charter schools, which are publicly funded but generally operate independently of school districts. The state had 37 charter schools just three years ago. Most that closed cited financial difficulties.

Proponents say charter school offer parents a choice to send their children to schools that offer innovation and options and introduce competition into education.