Ted Lempert, former California assembly member and current CEO of Children Now, discussed his role in sponsoring AB 544, a pivotal charter school legislation in California. AB 544 lifted the cap on charter schools, shifted the burden of proof to school districts, and allowed charters to operate as nonprofits. Lempert emphasized the bipartisan support and the need for innovation within the public school system. He highlighted the impact of AB 544, which led to the growth of charter management organizations and influenced national charter school policies. Lempert stressed the importance of maintaining bipartisanship and innovation in education to benefit students.
Transcript
Outline
Ted Lempert’s Background and Early Involvement in Charter Schools
- Jed Wallace introduces Ted Lempert, highlighting his role in sponsoring AB 544 and his current position as CEO of Children Now.
- Ted Lempert shares his initial involvement in the charter school movement, influenced by Senator Hart and the need for significant change in the public school system.
- Ted discusses his familiarity with the first charter school in California, located in his adopted hometown of San Carlos.
- Jed Wallace compares the passage of California’s charter school law to Minnesota’s, noting the bipartisan support and the impact on public education.
Challenges and Needs Addressed by AB 544
- Ted Lempert explains the overregulation of traditional public schools and the need for deregulation within the charter movement.
- He highlights the cap on charter schools, the ease with which districts could deny charters, and the need for charters to function as nonprofits.
- Ted describes the collaboration with Silicon Valley business leaders and the use of direct democracy to address these issues.
- The initiative gathered over a million signatures, but the sponsors decided to pursue legislative action to avoid a costly campaign.
The Legislative Process and Compromises
- Ted Lempert details the three-week process to draft and pass AB 544, emphasizing the bipartisan support and the need for quick action.
- Key provisions included lifting the cap on charter schools, shifting the burden of proof to school districts, and allowing charters to operate as nonprofits.
- The compromise on teacher certification requirements was discussed, with Ted acknowledging the need for certified teachers to maintain public trust.
- Jed Wallace and Ted Lempert discuss the importance of maintaining the public school status of charter schools and the impact of these changes.
Impact and Legacy of AB 544
- Ted Lempert reflects on the significant impact of AB 544, including the growth of charter management organizations and the national interest in the charter movement.
- He shares personal anecdotes about the positive impact of charter schools on students and the fulfillment of making a difference in public policy.
- Jed Wallace highlights the cross-state impact of AB 544, with charter management organizations like Aspire and KIPP expanding nationally.
- Ted emphasizes the importance of bipartisanship and the need for continued innovation and reform within the public education system.
Current Perspective and Future of Charter Schools
- Ted Lempert discusses his current role at Children Now and the broader perspective on the California public education landscape.
- He expresses concern over the divisiveness surrounding charter schools and the importance of maintaining a focus on what is best for kids.
- Ted highlights the role of charter schools in pushing for innovation and reform within the public education system.
- He encourages charter school leaders to continue organizing, listening to student voices, and pushing for necessary changes to improve public education.
