"I think the intent of creating the office of charter schools as a 'region' was to elevate it to the position where it would clearly have the direct and consistent attention of Dr. Ackerman," Sandra Dungee Glenn, commission chairwoman, said after the meeting. "It clarifies . . . the importance of charter schools as a part of our system of public schools."
Ackerman said that the details had not been worked out, but that the preferred candidate for the post likely would have charter experience.
The commission also agreed to provide more resources to the charter office so there is enough staff to ensure charters follow state regulations and to find ways for the district and charters to share educational ideas.
The new position was a compromise after a charter task force recommended that the charter office be removed from the district's bureaucracy and report directly to the commission.
Commission member James Gallagher, who convened the task force and originally favored its recommendation, said he felt the compromise was a "reflective and thoughtful reaction to the advice we were given."
Larry Jones, president of the Pennsylvania Coalition of Charter Schools, who served on the task force, said he was disappointed but looked forward to working with the district to improve relations.
Ackerman's plan for boosting performance at 85 elementary, middle and high schools, which she is calling "Empowerment Schools," involves a comprehensive $12 million program.
Darlene Driver, hired to oversee the program, outlined a strategy to provide additional help to the schools. Fifteen teams of trained educators will work with the schools and regional administrators to develop action plans tailored to each school.
The 23 most-troubled schools will receive even more intensive help, including social-service liaisons and increased nursing services.
