The legislation would create a state charter school committee to review applications for charter schools. Local school districts would be advised of applications, and the response of their boards would be one consideration in the decision-making process.

Currently, local school boards have sole authority to consider charter school applications. The Charleston County School Board, for example, recently approved four charter schools. But the reluctance of other school boards to approve charter schools reflects their apprehension over competition for pupils and funding.

The system has resulted in a relatively small number of charter schools in South Carolina. Last year, the Legislature addressed some of the impediments, but left the decision-making authority to local boards.

The proposal now before the Legislature could expedite the application process, particularly if a local school board has already demonstrated something less than an open mind regarding charter schools. It would encourage interest in school choice, not diminish it under a pile of paperwork or unnecessary delays.

School choice is essential to improving public education in South Carolina. Students shouldn't be trapped in perennially failing schools. And the competition to traditional public schools will help shake them out of the academic doldrums that threaten educational progress.