Special Education Accountability: Structural Reform to Help CA Charter Schools Make the Grade

Publication Date: July 2004

Publisher: Reason Foundation

Author(s): Lisa Snell

Research Area: Education

Type: Report

Coverage: California

Abstract:

Special Education accountability is difficult for all schools. Yet, charter schools face unique challenges.
With fewer resources available and less oversight and control than traditional schools, accountability is
especially arduous for charters. Most charters are small and do not have the economies of scale to reduce the
cost of special education services. In most cases, the quality of a charter school's special education services
rests largely on its authorizing school district, which controls the funding of the program. Regarding special
education in California charter schools specifically, this study examines accountability, provision, and
structural barriers to innovation, and recommends several policy changes to promote innovation and
accountability.