Public Charter Schools get Support From North Dakota Senate

Sen. Michelle Axtman, R-Bismarck. . (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor)

(Michael Achterling – North Dakota Monitor) –  A bill authorizing public charter schools in North Dakota cleared the Senate on a 40-7 vote. It will now advance to the House of Representatives, which previously was split on a similar bill.

Senate Bill 2241, sponsored by Sen. Michelle Axtman, R-Bismarck, received little pushback from lawmakers during floor debate. However, during the bill’s public hearing, education and public school associations raised concerns about diverting teachers and resources away from traditional K-12 schools, which could significantly affect rural school districts.

“Senate Bill 2241 is not about replacing, or reducing, the importance of our traditional public schools,” Axtman said. “It’s about expanding opportunities for students and families who are looking for another alternative public school option.”

She said, as part of their licensing agreement, charter schools would have to demonstrate that they have community support for their proposed locations.