For the first time we know there is a big waiting list of children trying to go to charter schools. The waiting list stood at 16,810 last school year and Texas Public Policy Foundation Analyst Brook Terry says that number will only grow, because the total number of charter schools isn’t growing.  “There’s no reason to cap charters.  Make sure that they can prove that they are going to do a good job.  Ask them report as much information as you need but if students are wanting to attend a public charter school why not give them that opportunity”
But right now the number of open enrollment charter schools is capped at 215.  210 are currently up and running and the last five charters will be awarded by the State Board of Education next month.  Terry says lawmakers should seriously consider getting rid of that cap next session to help deal with the waiting list.