RFA’s Kate Shaw discusses vouchers on Fox News

Posted by Alison Murawski on Feb 16, 2011 in Blog

RFA’s executive director, Kate Shaw, appeared on Fox News Good Day Live this morning to participate in a discussion about the future of educational vouchers in Pennsylvania. This conversation was especially timely as the State Senate went into session to consider voucher legislation – Senate Bill 1 – today. Click here to see the news clip.

As the debate on vouchers heats up, it is clear that our work to examine only the most reputable, rigorous research on the topic has struck a chord. In fact, over the weekend, an opinion piece in the Pottstown Mercury referenced the brief.

What Do Vouchers Mean for Public Schools?

Posted by Briana Pressey on Feb 11, 2011 in Blog

Philadelphia Daily News: This op-ed written by Daylin Leach questions the effectiveness of Senate Bill 1 and what it means for Philadelphia public schools. The vouchers provide eligible students with an average of $9,000 to attend any school that accepts them, but the school that they wish to leave does not save any money.

In the midst of the ongoing debate on Senate Bill 1, several questions arise regarding the future of education in Philadelphia and what it means for the city’s students. RFA has conducted rigorous research in order to answer some of these questions in our brief – Questions and Answers About Educational Vouchers:Facts, Figures, and a Summary of the Research.

Which Schools Will Be Included in the Next Wave of the Renaissance Schools Initiative?

Posted by Briana Pressey on Jan 24, 2011 in Blog

The Notebook: The Philadelphia Public School Notebook blog has assembled a likely list of low-performing schools that may be included in the Renaissance Schools Initiative’s second round of school turnaround. This likely list is based on School Performance Index (SPI) data and criteria used in the first round of the initiative.

RFA researchers are currently evaluating the first year of implementation of the Renaissance Schools Initiative, including the role of community engagement in the process. Learn more about the project here.

Leaders Pledge to Improve Education for Philadelphia Students

Posted by Briana Pressey on Dec 14, 2010 in Blog

Philadelphia Daily News: Leaders vow to work together to bring education issues to the forefront and to ensure quality education in charter, district, and private schools. Learn about RFA’s Strategies for Improving Schools.

Public Schools Encouraged to Model Themselves After Successful Charters

Posted by Briana Pressey on Nov 10, 2010 in Blog

Education Week: Many believe there should be an increase in collaboration between public and charter schools and more sharing of best practices.