Check out these comments about “school choice” availability in the Jefferson County Public School District (JCPS):

“The current choice system is far from perfect. Many families don’t get their first choice, and about 20% don’t get either first or second choice. Family logistics and the student assignment plan mean that many families must choose based on factors unrelated to the best academic fit for their child (Emphasis Added). And perhaps most frustrating, communication from the District about choices, application processes and decision criteria is confusing – sometimes almost impenetrable. To note that choice is offered is not to express satisfaction with how school selection works today for most families.”

Wow!

And, no, BIPPS didn’t write this. It is found in an article titled “Thoughts on Charter Schools” from JCPS board chair David Jones.

One of the big arguments being raised against charter schools by the education bureaucracy that is the Jefferson County Public School System is that they already offer choice. But, it looks like even the JCPS board president understands school choice in Jefferson County really isn’t much choice at all.

There are more interesting revelations in Mr. Jones’ article, but I am going to hold further comments until after BIPPS releases our new report on the black students’ achievement gap mess in the JCPS on Monday.

By the way, WLKY in Louisville is running an extensive review of charter schools both on air and online. The first installment is online now, and coverage will continue today at 5 pm when Bluegrass Institute president Jim Waters is expected to appear.