Panel backs plan for vocational/technical charter schools to apply directly to BESE

The Senate Education Committee voted to adopt a substitute to SB95 that creates a pathway for specialized vocational and technical charter schools to apply directly to BESE as regional (type‑2) charters after certification or support by the State Board of Commerce and Industry.

Proponents, including Sarah Vandegrift Kelly, legal policy director for the Charter School Association, described the model as a ‘‘mission‑based’’ charter school focused on high‑wage, high‑demand regional industries, with tighter industry partnerships and oversight built into the application and governance processes. Kelly said the substitute is intended to create ‘‘another option’’ for students and to draw employers into sustained partnerships with schools.

Opponents and skeptical members questioned bypassing local school boards and a provision that allows up to 50% preference for students whose parent or guardian is employed in the designated economic sector. Senator Jackson Andrews pressed the panel on whether such a preference could reduce racial or geographic diversity and asked whether the approach would unduly favor local employers or create instability if industries change.

Supporters said the model requires rigorous approvals (including State Board of Commerce certification and BESE oversight) and does not eliminate accountability or financial responsibility. The committee adopted the substitute and reported the bill favorably by roll call.

Next steps: The SB95 substitute was reported favorably (5–1) and will be scheduled for floor consideration.