(NASHVILLE)  Tennessee's second charter school was approved this past Friday through the use of a Zoom meeting. In that electronic conference, the Tennessee Public Charter School Commission gave the thumbs-up for Rutherford Collegiate Prep. 

Lawmakers heard from both the Rutherford County public school system as well as those from Rutherford Collegiate Prep. In addition, the public gave its input as well. 

Rutherford County Schools Input

Rutherford County Schools Director Bill Spurlock submitted a written document to show its stand on charter schools. 

State Representative Mike Sparks (R, Smyrna) told WGNS, "I think it could help us releive our already overcrowded and growing district. Ten of the twelve Title 1 schools (higher poverty) are in my house district and Rutherford Collegiate Prep will serve these student's educational needs." 

The charter school is being formed by a 501(c)(3) organization called ReThink Forward.

Rutherford County public schools had a 12-member committee that had been studying ReThink Forward's proposal prior to the meeting. 

ReThink Forward's Written Comments

NewsRadio WGNS is planning a series of programs that will feature spokespersons on both sides of this issue. Hopefully, this will enable the public to get a more accurate picture of the pros and cons of the charter school concept. 

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