July 28, 2008
Superintendent Candidate Meets with Charter School Leaders

On July 28, more than 25 Indianapolis area charter school and community leaders gathered at the Challenge Foundation Academy, a charter school located in the Meadows neighborhood of Indianapolis, to hear from Superintendent of Public Instruction candidate Tony Bennett. The Republican nominee, who hails from Greater Clark County Schools where he currently serves as Superintendent, told guests that he wants to move the state department from “regulatory to resource” focused.  The gathering, hosted by GEO Foundation’s Charter School Service Center, was an opportunity for charter leaders to hear Bennett’s vision for the future of the Indiana Department of Education and the role charter schools play in providing Indiana’s public education.
 
Bennett suggested placing DOE representatives in all nine area educational service centers because it would make it easier to reach someone with an inquiry.   
 
The audience told Bennett their high priority issues for the State Superintendent in the coming years, too. Suggestions included equality in funding for charter schools as charter schools do not receive funds for their buildings nor for transportation they provide, whereas traditional schools do.  Leaders also suggested creating a tracking system for student migration (between schools), addressing the drop-out rate, and more recognition of the service that charter schools provide the community.
 
Bennett agreed that addressing the drop-out rate was important, but stressed that the real focus should be getting students to complete post-secondary education. He said this could be accomplished by excellent leaders creating a positive school culture that embraces achievement and college. Bennett commented, “In a good school culture, teachers should be talking about college every period of every day.” He added that options other than a four-year degree should be clearly explained to students.
 
Bennett also recognized the value of school options, including charter schools. “I am a strong proponent of competition. You make us all better.” He went on to add that traditional public schools cannot always grow as quickly as technology and society necessitate. Bennett embraces all options including private, charter, home school, and virtual schools.  
 
Kevin Teasley, President and Founder of GEO Foundation commented, “This was an excellent opportunity for us to hear Bennett’s stance on charters and other important issues. The Service Center was happy to be able to organize such an event for the charter community.” He added that the Service Center plans to invite Democratic nominee Richard Wood to a similar event.
 
For more information on Tony Bennett visit www.drtonybennett.com.