Some people like rules. They keep life simple. Others think rules just get in the way of getting things done. Floridians have a reputation for avoiding as many rules as possible except for their traditional public schools. They are rule bound, and some parents rebel. There is an escape clause called ‘school choice’. For charters and private schools the rules are bent or removed.
Charters are supposed to save money, and theyprovide a way for private businesses to make money, lots of it. The money comes from the state or from corporate tax rebates. It is big money, about half of the State’s general fund.
One wonders if controls on ethics and conflict of interest are sufficiently strong to protect the public interest in education? The buzz about Florida is that there is more self-interest than public interest than in any other state. Are such allegations warranted?
