MONTGOMERY – Governor Robert Bentley has signed the School Choice and Student Opportunity Act, SB45, into law. The bill was introduced in the Alabama State Senate by Senate Pro Tem Del Marsh, and was sponsored in the State House by Representative Terri Collins. Passing in the Senate last week and the House just yesterday, the bill was placed on Governor Bentley’s desk at 9:47 this morning.
The bill will allow the creation of public charter schools and conversion charter schools in Alabama; open to any student who wishes to attend. Charter school administrators will have authority over the school’s finances, staff, schedule and curriculum. By critically investigating existing charter school systems in 42 other states, Alabama legislators were able to compile a bill that will ensure the highest level of accountability and success.
Following Governor Bentley’s action, ALGOP Chairwoman Terry Lathan made the following comments:
“Alabama is a state that has a long history of educational challenges. As a former public school teacher, I applaud the creative pathway that our Republican legislature is willing to travel in our quest to raise the educational bar in Alabama. While there is no quick fix, the establishment of public charter schools in our state will allow our students, parents and teachers the opportunity to make a true difference in the education and future of Alabama.
“The Alabama Republican Party continues to be supportive of school choice and is proud to see our legislators and governor come together to pass this important measure.”
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