The Joint Legislative Program Evaluation Oversight Committee directed the Program Evaluation Division to examine Colorado’s Douglas County School District to determine whether its approach to school choice can inform state education policy-making in North Carolina. PED identified strategies that DCSD has taken to improve school choice in Douglas County, including expanding home education enrichment services, developing the Choice Scholarship Program, and enhancing partnerships with locally authorized charter schools. The General Assembly should consider several factors in determining whether to implement aspects of the DCSD approach to school choice, including: limited student performance data, demographic differences, and statutory changes that would be necessary for implementation. A statewide community engagement and strategic planning process could assist in determining whether the Douglas County approach provides opportunities for improving and expanding school choice options in North Carolina.
Relevant Legislation:
- Senate Bill 748 (2013–14) proposed codifying the North Carolina Virtual Public School Program and providing for a limited tuition waiver for nonpublic school students. This legislation was not enacted.
- Senate Bill 752 (2013–14) proposed clarifying and amending the procedures for application as a North Carolina Charter School. This legislation was not enacted.
- Senate Bill 754 (2013–14) proposed amending the process for the approval of a charter school application. This legislation was not enacted.