A Call to Action!

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Hi friends and family,

 
Hope everyone is doing well!  I wanted to let you know about something I'm involved in with a few friends of mine--opening a new charter elementary school! 
   
WHAT IS A CHARTER SCHOOL?
Charter schools are tuition-free public schools which are authorized by the local school district but operate independently. 
WHY? 
Even though I am happy as a stay-at-home mom, I see the urgent need for a small, quality public school that utilizes a rigorous academic curriculum and project based method.   Many schools in my area perform poorly, quality charter schools are hard to get into, and private school costs range from $10,000 - $25,000 a year!

ARE CHARTER SCHOOLS WELL RECEIVED? 

Charter schools are rapidly growing in popularity, partly due to the cuts of arts and science within district schools and smaller class size (district ratio for the coming year is 1 to 30).  Here are some examples, to give you an idea of the demand:

Explorer Elementary – over 1,000 applications for 4 open spots in their Kindergarten program

Urban Discovery (currently in their 3^rd year) - waiting list just to take a tour. A tour must be completed before submitting an application

SDCCS – Over 140 applications to fill 18 spots in their Kindergarten program

HOW  IS THIS SCHOOL DIFFERENT?
1.) We will offer a hands-on learning approach with an emphasis on “Science through the Arts”.  2.) Our school will be small with a lower teacher to student ratio.  Target grades for the first year are K-2, but can be extended based on need.  The plan is to increase by at least 1 grade per year thereafter.  However, this would remain a small school with a maximum of about 300 students. 3.) Parent participation is not only welcome but required. 4.) We are neutral and nonsectarian not only in theory but practice.
WHEN?
Based upon approval of our charter petition (a document of 60-100 pages which outlines everything from curriculum to budget) and securing a location, it is possible this school could be open in September 2011.  If not, it would open September 2012.
WHERE?
We are actively scouting locations in central San Diego.  These can include, but are not limited to:  retail space, former schools, office buildings, etc.
HOW CAN I HELP?
You can best answer this question.  Your skill might be just what we need!  Here are a few things to get you thinking:  great writers to help us write the petition and grants for additional funding, someone with experience in commercial real estate leasing, someone with legal expertise, enthusiastic parents of potential students, and anyone with a willing and helpful spirit! 
 
Please respond if you are interested in assisting, have questions, or just want to voice your support!  :)  Feel free to forward this email.  Thanks for your time.
 

Deena Cano

technechartersd@gmail.com