The state Department of Education will consider 32 applications to open new charter schools across the state including proposals focused on science, fashion and performing arts instruction, a department spokesman said Tuesday. Patti Sapone/The Star Ledger Lili Meddahi, 8, of Maplewood makes up a sign for the rally in Maplewood. Essex county residents and local legislators rally inside the Maplewood Community Center at DeHart Park to urge Acting Education Commissioner Chris Cerf to once again reject the Hua Mei charter school application. Hua Mei has decided not to apply for charter school approval this cycle, but 32 other schools have submitted applications.
Expanding access to charter schools is one of Gov. Chris Christie’s education reform priorities, but this application cycle drew 10 fewer applicants than the last round in October. School leaders will learn by September if their plans have been approved.
Most of the applicants propose opening schools in Newark, Paterson or Jersey City, where students enrolled in traditional public schools post low test scores on state exams.
By Jessica Calefati/The Star-Ledger 