More charter schools in Michigan?

The number of university-chartered schools in Michigan would gradually increase over the next four years under legislation introduced in the State House in May.

The legislation (House Bill 4800), sponsored by Rep. Wayne Kuipers, R-Holland, is similar to the one that stalled in the House last year. The plan would increase the number of charter schools by 50 this year, lifting the current cap of 150 on university-sponsored schools. The legislation would allow the cap to increase to 200 this year, by 50 more in 2002 and by 25 in both 2003 and 2004.

Observers say the bill also would increase the number of rules and regulations on current and new charter schools. "We support choice, not more regulation," says Dan Quisenberry, president of the Michigan Association of Public School Academies.

The House may debate the bill in the fall.