House, Senate approve charter school legislation

Associated Press

COLUMBIA, S.C. - The House and Senate have approved a compromise version of legislation making it easier to set up charter schools, clearing the way for Gov. Mark Sanford's signature.

Sanford has made charter school legislation one of his top priorities this session.

The bill sets up a statewide charter school district, with most of its members appointed by the governor and approved by the Senate.

That district would be an alternate route to receiving a charter for school operators who do not want to deal with local school trustees.

"This bill makes it easier for parents and teachers to start charter schools," said House Speaker Bobby Harrell, R-Charleston. "Providing this opportunity for our students to achieve academic excellence will help move our state forward."

The House gave the required two-thirds majority vote Tuesday. The Senate did so last Thursday.