Policy Research

Boston and the Charter School Cap

James A. Peyser

Summary

This article gives an overview of the challenges facing charter school expansion in Boston. Boston charter schools rank near the top of urban public schools in the nation, and the 18% cap has been frustrating for charter schools that want to expand their reach. The state opposes increasing the cap, and more importantly so does the mayor. Non-charter schools perform less well than charter schools in Boston, but former is still one of the best public systems in the nation. Critics of charter schools say that their data is biased because they serve fewer English language learners and students with severe disabilities, which are two groups with additional classroom needs. However, the proportion of black and Hispanic students and low income students is roughly the same between the systems.

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Policy Implications

Charter schools, along with a recent budget increase for Boston Public Schools, have benefited Boston students. Part of the problem in Boston is politicization of the issue, which can be a serious setback for charter school supporters. This article serves as a primer on the charter school debate in Boston. If charter schools can win the support of the mayor of Boston, they will be able to increase their reach.