Initiative 1240 which seeks to authorize Charter Schools in the state of Washington is the subject of a debate set for Aug. 8 sponsored by Kiwanis of West Seattle. The event is scheduled for noon, Wednesday, August 8 in the dining room of BE’s Restaurant, 4509 California Ave. S.W. during the regular club meeting.

For Initiative 1240 will be represented by a speaker from its speakers bureau. Opponents of Initiative 1240 will be represented by Elisa Westcort of PTSA Seattle. Each side will be allotted equal time for presentations and audience questions. Washington is one of the nine states which have no charter schools. Charter schools are authorized in 41 states.

Initiative 1240 Ballot Measure Summary
This measure would allow a newly-created state commission or approved local school boards to authorize qualifying nonreligious, nonprofit organizations to operate public charter schools, limited to forty schools over five years. Public charter schools would receive standard per-student public school funding and be open to all students without tuition. Public charter schools would be subject to teacher certification requirements, government oversight, and performance reporting requirements, but exempt from certain laws and school district policies.

Members of the public interested in this issue are welcome to attend. Lunch may be reserved for $8; Coffee only $3. Please call 206-928-8032. Free parking is available in Junction lots on 44th Ave. S.W. A marked rear entrance is provided.

Our club meets at Be’s Café at 4509 California Ave SW in the Alaska Junction – south of Radio Shack on California Ave – on the 1st, 3rd and 4th Wednesdays of the month for Breakfast at 7am; and Lunch on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 12 noon.