The Louisiana Supreme Court heard arguments in September 2017, and a decision could come by January 24, 2018. The case follows a years-long court battle by education reform advocates, including LAPCS, to uphold the constitutional rights of state-funded Type 2 Charter Schools. At issue is whether these Type 2 schools can continue receiving dollars from the state-run funding program known as Minimum Foundation Program (MFP). 

The next scheduled release dates for Supreme Court decisions are January 24, March 13, and May 1. It's unknown when the decision will be announced.

LAPCS and its sister advocacy organization, Louisiana Charter Schools in Action, joined with other community groups for a successful campaign in New Orleans, where voters overwhelmingly approved renewing three property tax millages. Together they provide nearly $40 million to all schools citywide for textbooks, teacher salaries, and essential programs like dropout prevention. Overall, a total of 1048 of 1053 precincts supported the measure. 

After a long process of collaboration and hard work by the Louisiana Department of Education, LAPCS, and others, Louisiana's Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) plan received widespread acclaim. According to an independent review by national advocacy groups, Louisiana's plan to comply with the federal ESSA presents a strong vision for students and sets high expectations. The Alliance for Excellent Education called it one of the "most promising" in the United States. The Louisiana ESSA plan won federal approval in August following BESE approval in April. 

The School Leader Handbook, which explains charter school operations, compliance with public laws, and proper charter school exemptions among other topics, was hand delivered in 2017 to LAPCS schools and then followed up by a workshop. The Handbook is a one-stop reference guide to Louisiana's laws and policies for those leading charter schools--both newcomers and veterans alike. It is a companion piece to the Charter Board Legal Handbook that is in its fourth year in collaboration with Louisiana Appleseed.

Dakota Roemer joined LAPCS as Director of Strategic Partnerships. His main job function is to lead the Vendor Partner Program which provides businesses offering educational resources and services the opportunity to partner with and serve charter schools in Louisiana.

Sarah Vandergriff won two prestigious awards in 2017. LAPCS' Legal and Policy Director was recognized as New Orleans' City Business Magazine's Top 50 outstanding legal professionals and Gambit Weekly’s annual 40 Under 40 overachievers list.

Roby Chavez became Communications & Public Relations Director. Roby joins LAPCS after a decade's long career as a broadcast journalist and coordinates all communications and marketing activities.

Please consider giving a year-end gift before December 31 to support our work. Your donation improves education in Louisiana by supporting, promoting, and advocating for excellent public charter schools. DONATING TODAY will set the foundation for a great 2018 and ensure we can continue to push for an excellent education for all students in Louisiana!