The year 2011 was declared by the Wall Street Journal to be "The Year of School Choice," as twelve states and the District of Columbia gave parents more opportunities to choose the best education for their children. (more…)
How well are we educating children in Mississippi schools?
In many cases, we are doing quite well. Judging by test scores and graduation rates, many students are showing they can compete with the best students in the world. In some instances those are isolated schools, but in many cases, there are entire districts where most of the students are highly successful. (more…)
Another school year has started, and due to the inaction of the legislature, it's another school year in which parents are forced to send their children wherever the government tells them they have to go - even if that school is not educating their children well. (more…)
A few years ago, I met a former Prime Minister of the eastern European country of Estonia. Eighteen years ago, at the age of 32, Mart Laar set Estonia on the transforming course from being a socialist state in the Soviet bloc to its current status as one of the freest economies in the world. (more…)
Charter School Bill Clears MS Senate; House Inches Forward; Thigpen on Statewide Radio Thurs. Morning (more…)
What if your local officials said to you, "As long as you live here, you will only shop at one grocery store - the one we choose for you?" (more…)
This year, it appears the legislature will finally address the need for charter schools in Mississippi. But I want to warn you: there is a lot of misinformation floating around. (more…)
Charter School FAQ
by Forest M. Thigpen
This Issue Brief describes the general concept of charter schools; specific legislation may differ.
What is a Charter School?
There's a phrase that's often used as a conversation-stopper in public policy debates. Those who use this phrase seemingly seek to intimidate their opponents into defending evil against good. It seems to be used when all rational arguments fail. The phrase? "Anything for the children." (more…)