An Education for Some

There is one way to get educated, which is to go through the schools. Then there is another, which is to deal with them. Shelby County's first charter school is still a ways off because officials get real picky about just who can enter one:

The application describes a school for kindergarten through fifth grade. Legally, however, it could only serve fourth and fifth grades, Webb said.

Charter schools are allowed for students who are in failing schools or for students who fail to make adequate progress even in successful schools.

The county system has no failing schools, so only students who are failing can attend charter schools.

Tennessee does not give Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program tests in grades K-2, so K-3 students enrolled in successful schools may not attend charter schools, Webb said.

I'm glad to know that not just anyone can get on the plantation. Too bad about all those trapped inside.