Are charters a "private entity"?

When the Illinois Education Labor Relations Board (IELRB) certified a unionization bid by teachers from three Chicago charter schools late last month, the newly-formed union hoped for a seamless transition from organizing to collective bargaining. Unfortunately, that hasn't panned out. Instead, Civitas -- an arm of the Chicago International Charter Schools (CICS) network -- has opted to challenge the state board's authority to rule on the matter, arguing that as a "private entity," the decision ought to fall to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). (Progress Illinois).

Baltimore Sun ed writer/blogger shows some heart

I've used lots of Sara Neufeld's well-written and well-researched articles as a source for my blog posts about Baltimore schools and school reform. Now Sara is leaving the Sun. What a loss! And what a stand-up person. Best wishes for future success to her. (h/t Gotham Schools)