Decision on charter schools postponed
By Robin Nasby Special to the Acorn

The Pleasant Valley School District board of trustees postponed its decision on the approval of University Charter Middle School and University Preparation School at Channel Islands at a special meeting last week.

"In the interest of both parties, we would like to revisit the draft," said Darci Knight, director of state and federal programs for the Pleasant Valley School District.

The board supports the content of the draft but needs the applicants to review the "language and typographical errors" that are evident throughout the report, Knight said.

"I found fewer than 50 instances where it was not correct," Trustee Sandra Berg said.

In an earlier meeting, the board set June 30 as the deadline for approval of both charters.

"If we don't get an extension, our charter is done. That is our only fear and concern," said Cynthia Gray, a representative with the charter schools.

The Pleasant Valley School District staff members and three board members in attendance assured the charter school applicants they will work together to ensure both progress and security.

"We don't want a mistake that would hurt the charter. We support the charter," said Julie Cavaliere, director certificated personnel for Pleasant Valley School District.

"In no way does this compromise how I feel about the charter. . . . Both parties need to be protected," Berg said.

Board President Ron Speakman said the decision on the charter schools will be made July 19 during the next school board meeting at city hall.