by NH Alliance for Public Charter Schools
Dear Charter school teachers, students, parents and supporters,
The decision by Fiscal Committee Democrats to table the motion to accept a $46M grant – virtually without discussion – is outrageous.
Committee Democrats made two big claims when they rejected the $46M grant in December:
1) They were concerned about the future impact on taxpayers;
2) They wanted to help existing rather than new charter schools.
At the time we found these arguments to be disingenuous given the fact that Democrats cut the Governor’s request for charter school lease aid by 60% in the state budget and even went so far as to block charter schools from receiving additional state aid based on the percentage of their students who qualify for Free and Reduced lunch (198:40-b).
Now suddenly, when presented with an analysis that shows charter schools actually benefit New Hampshire taxpayers, they shut down all debate. They even refused to allow the Commissioner and Department staff to present letters from existing charter schools that explain how the $46M would help their schools, families, and communities.
We don’t know their real reason for rejecting these federal grant dollars but it is clear that their arguments are not only without merit but they are constantly moving the goal posts.
We understand that it’s an election year and that is unfortunate, but Democrats are throwing away a $46M grant for public education. The stakes are too high for this kind of pettiness and frankly, New Hampshire students deserve better than the political game playing out in Concord.