AB 2115 (Mullin) would require members of charter school governing boards to comply with the same conflict of interest laws as other public officials, including school board members. The bill would also establish minimum eligibility criteria for charter school board members. The bill would prohibit charter school employees from serving on their governing boards.
The California State PTA supports this bill and urges its districts, councils and units to contact their state senators to urge passage of AB 2115. You should contact them by fax or phone. The California State PTA supports the bill because AB 2115 is consistent with a general principle of the California State PTA that supports adherence to strict ethical practices at all levels of government. Further, the prohibition on charter school employees serving on their governing boards should increase the opportunity for greater parental and community involvement in the governance of charter schools.
Here is a sample letter:
The Honorable (First Name) (Last Name)
California State Senate
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814
RE: AB 2115 (MULLIN) — SUPPORT
Dear Senator (Last Name):
The California State PTA supports AB 2115, which would establish minimum qualifications for persons to serve on charter school governing boards and require those boards to comply with conflict-of-interest and open meeting laws. The _____ PTA respectfully requests your aye vote on this important bill.
AB 2115 is consistent with a general principle of the California State PTA that supports adherence to strict ethical practices at all levels of government. Further, the prohibition on charter school employees serving on their governing boards should increase the opportunity for greater parental and community involvement in the governance of charter schools. This increased opportunity is consistent with PTA’s support for strong parent involvement programs in all public schools. Research shows the more involved parents and community members become in working with and supporting their schools, the quality of education improves and there are greater opportunities for student success.
Thank you for the opportunity to share my concerns with you.
Sincerely,
(Your Name)
To receive this and other Legislation Information Alerts from the California State PTA, please send your name and e-mail address to Leginfo@capta.org.
