Cape Coral says charter school system lacks funding

Funding for a charter school system is drying up, and parents of students fear they will soon need to look for someplace new to send their children.

In a recent report, Cape Coral City Manager John Szerlag said Cape Coral Charter School Authority is unsustainable because it’s running out of money.

MORE: Cape Coral Charter School Sustainability Report

A COUPLE OPTIONS

• The city might have to use taxpayer money from its general fund to pay the lease
• Have the School District of Lee County step in to help

But Superintendent Gregory Adkins has already let Cape Coral know The District will take students, but it can’t afford to renovate the buildings to standards set by the state.

“It was a bit of surprise,” said Onel Montalvo, whose kids are students in the charter school system. “It makes me a little upset that there’s a chance of them going to public school.”

Parents chose Cape Coral charter schools for their kids because they’re smaller, and they believe it serves as a better fit for them.

“I would prefer if they could stay here and keep the school open,” said Nicole Davison, whose children go to Cape Coral charter schools.

The city said it has no intention of closing the schools. Recommendations that will be made to the city include taking out a long-term loan and paying off all or a portion of the current debt.

The city plans to host a discussion 4:30 p.m. Monday at Cape Coral City Hall in council chambers.

“I think the parents should have an input as well, and the discussion of pros and cons and what’s available,” Davison said.