If the charter school offers an effective, individually focused education then why is it testing low? How low?
Tests scores reported in greatschools are usually relative to just-adequate state standards. If the school's approach can't even get the kids to that level, then I would wonder what was good about it.
Now, if the charter school happens to draw kids with learning challenges, or who have been underserved in the past, then maybe it is an excellent school despite lower scores. But I wouldn't automatically conclude that a school that does a great job bringing low performing student closer to grade level is necessarily a good fit for a child who is already excelling.
I've been asking myself the same question, if it's so perfect then why are the test scores low? What I do know is the school has doubled in size and took on a bunch of kids from a failed charter school last year however before that they still struggled but not as much. I am basing a lot on a meeting with a teacher in their first/second grade program, she currently teaches my son in one subject. It seems very individualized. I wish that I could see the test scores of kids at the school for two years or more, I think that would tell a lot. They do have kids who struggle, probably more than the other school, and having him be the most advanced reader this year was a problem. I do think he would not be so alone at the other school but I worry about their willingness to individualize. I like the math and science set up at his current school better plus he gets more specials and a longer recess, which he needs. The parent ratings are higher on the charter.
I wish this were easier.
