Oppose AB-84: Protect charter school flexibility

Subject: Oppose AB-84: Protect Charter Schools from Increased Burdens and Restrictions

My name is [Full Name], and I am writing to express my strong opposition to AB-84. This bill, while well-intentioned in its aim to enhance accountability, imposes excessive administrative burdens on charter schools, diverting crucial resources away from direct educational activities. The extensive auditing and compliance requirements outlined in Section 47604.35 could significantly increase the workload for charter schools, forcing them to allocate more time and funds to administrative tasks rather than focusing on student education. Moreover, the establishment of the Office of the Education Inspector General, as detailed in Section 33309.5, introduces new layers of oversight that could lead to operational challenges, hindering the ability of charter schools to innovate and provide flexible educational opportunities. The restrictions on nonclassroom-based charter schools, particularly those in smaller districts, as mentioned in Section 47605.10, further limit educational options for students who thrive in alternative learning environments. AB-84's financial and compliance audit mandates, found in Sections 14500-14509, could impose significant financial burdens on charter schools, impacting their ability to effectively allocate resources for student education. Additionally, the removal of the provision limiting "misassignment" to teaching positions in charter schools, as per Section 44258.9, could increase administrative burdens related to teacher credentialing and assignments. In conclusion, I urge you to oppose AB-84, as it threatens to undermine the flexibility and innovation that charter schools offer, ultimately affecting the quality of education available to students. Please consider the negative consequences this bill could have on our children's education and vote against its passage. Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. Sincerely,