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Focus Students and Staff Show Support for Charter Schools

Posted in News on May 10th, 2007 with Comments Off

Focus Learning Academy could be affected by Governor Strickland’s budget proposal which threatens the future of charter schools. Staff and students at Focus have proudly stood up for their school in a variety of ways over the past few months though. As part of a letter-writing campaign to legislators, many wrote heartfelt letters expressing the difference Focus has made in their lives and the importance of keeping this option available to future students. In turn, legislators were reminded that charter schools are something to fight for, not against. Focus was also represented at a hearing before the Education Subcommittee of the House Finance and Appropriations Committee, where Focus North Director Mr. Butler and Focus East student Janay Latham testified on behalf of the school. Focus Southwest student Stacy Cornette  also went to testify in front of the full Finance and Appropriations Committee but time ran out and she didn’t get to speak.

Many legislators made their support of Focus and other charter schools known, including Representative Josh Mandel, who visited Focus East on Thursdsay, April 26. During his visit, he heard presentations about how Focus has changed lives. Presenters included Focus Superintendent Dr. Musick, Executive Director Ms. Williams, Instructor Mr. Thomas and student Janay Latham who read her testimony from the Statehouse hearing. All of the speakers reiterated the idea that Focus offers students a rich opportunity to grow both academically and personally.

Focus also showed its support by attending the “My Choice, My School” rally at the Statehouse on Wednesday, May 9 where charter school advocates from across the state convened to make their voices heard. A special congratulations goes to Focus East’s Janay Latham who was one of only two students to speak at the rally! Please help Focus continue giving students a safe and enriching schooling alternative by telling others the importance of supporting charter schools and opposing Governor Strickland’s educational budget proposal.