The Shortcomings of Alternative School Models

This article from my local newspaper (unintentionally) highlights some of the shortcomings of charter and "virtual" (whatever those are) schools. Extracurricular is not so extra; it can be an integral part of students educational experience, and several studies have found long-term benefits from participation. Taxpayers in this case, however, end up subsidizing the education of those who choose not to participate in the public school system. Charter schools often look cheaper, but in part, that is because they don't offer the same comprehensive package as public schools.