Spokane schools seek input on charter applicants

Spokane Public Schools’ administration is asking for the public’s input on applicants requesting to locate a charter school within the district. There are three applicants: • Pride Prep, a grass-roots effort led by former Garry Middle School principal Brenda McDonald. The proposed college preparatory school for sixth through 12th grades would include several years of a foreign language, extra math and science, nine-hour school days and an extended school year. • The Academy of Arts and Sciences is a California-based charter school that blends classroom and online learning for K-12 students. Students have opportunities to participate in a variety of arts and sciences programs, including dance, drama, media, gaming and electronics and engineering. This model has a heavy parent-participation component. • iLead, also based in California, uses children’s interests to teach lessons in a project-based format. The K-8 program includes a focus on international learning, leadership, entrepreneurial development, arts and design thinking. Links to the applications are available on Spokane Public Schools’ website. Printed copies of the applications are available at the district office, 200 N. Bernard, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The public will have an opportunity to comment Jan. 15 during a special board meeting at the district office. The school board will vote on Jan. 22. For more information, call (509) 354-5900.