Take Action: Call Maryland Education Leaders to Protect Charter School Funding
Your voice matters. The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and the State Board of Education need to hear from parents, educators, and community members who believe in equitable funding for public charter schools. Use this guide to make a quick, impactful call.
Step 1: Select Who to Call
Select Maryland education leaders to call. We’ve compiled them here.
Step 2: Use the Call Script
Use the call script and talking points below.
Tips for Effective Calls
Be polite and professional.
Stick to the talking points.
Share your personal connection to charter schools.
Ask for their support for the MAPCS version of the regulation.
Thank them for their time and leadership.
Call Script
Introduction:
"Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I am a [parent/teacher/community member] supporting public charter schools in Maryland. I’m calling because I’m deeply concerned about the current draft of the charter school commensurate funding regulation."
Key Points:
"The current draft would underfund charter schools and could force some to close within 1–4 years."
"I strongly support the MAPCS version of the regulation, which:
Removes unfair debt service deductions,
Restores the 2% administrative fee cap,
Eliminates the 'districtwide expenses' loophole, and
Fixes special education overage so schools only pay for their own students."
"Charter students deserve equitable funding, transparency, and a voice in this process."
"MSDE should review and publicly share the August 22 district funding formulas before any regulation is finalized."
Closing:
"I’m asking you to implement these changes in the regulation and ensure a transparent process that protects charter students and their schools. Thank you for your leadership and for listening to the voices of Maryland’s charter school families."
Quick Talking Points for Calls or Voicemails
Charter students deserve equitable funding under Maryland law.
Charters spend $2,500 per student annually on facilities and should not be penalized further.
The 2% administrative fee cap prevents districts from withholding excessive funds.
Eliminating the “districtwide expenses” loophole ensures transparency and fairness.
MSDE must analyze and publish August 22 funding formulas before moving forward with any regulation.