Summary

The Joint Legislative Program Evaluation Oversight Committee directed the Program Evaluation Division to examine Colorado's Douglas County School District to determine whether its approach to school choice can inform state education policy-making in North Carolina. PED identified strategies that DCSD has taken to improve school choice in Douglas County, including expanding home education enrichment services, developing the Choice Scholarship Program, and enhancing partnerships with locally authorized charter schools. The General Assembly should consider several factors in determining whether to implement aspects of the DCSD approach to school choice, including: limited student performance data, demographic differences, and statutory changes that would be necessary for implementation. A statewide community engagement and strategic planning process could assist in determining whether the Douglas County approach provides opportunities for improving and expanding school choice options in North Carolina.

Final Report

Executive Summary

Presentation