There are alternatives though. Pennsylvania has 117 charter schools. The Pennsylvania Department of Education describes charter schools as "self-managed public schools that are approved by local school districts. They are created and controlled by parents, teachers, community leaders, and colleges or universities. Charter schools operate free from many educational mandates, except for those concerning nondiscrimination, health and safety and accountability. Charter Schools offer alternatives in education using strategies that may save money and improve student performance."

Eleven of the state's charter schools are cyber schools. Cyber school classes are conducted almost entirely through a student's computer via the internet, emails, and other technologies.

Other alternatives include Montessori schools defined as "schools that emphasize learning through all five senses, not just through listening, watching, or reading. Children in Montessori classes learn at their own, individual pace."

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GUESTS

Larry Jones, President, Pennsylvania Coalition of Charter Schools
CEO, Richard Allen Preparatory Charter School

Karen Rubenstein, Head of School, Montessori Academy of Lancaster