Washoe County School Board targets public charter schools

In a recent Washoe County School Board meeting, Trustees discussed their 2025 legislative priority plan, sparking a robust debate among trustees and community members. The stated primary aim of the proposed plan is to fortify an environment where students can succeed. However, the undertone was that the popularity and high-performance of public charter schools have become a perceived threat to their status quo.

A controversial point of discussion was the role of for-profit vendors that service public charter schools, specifically Education Management Organizations (EMOs) that provide operations and administration services. With minimal dissent, Trustees went on to approve the legislative priority plan four to two, which included language to prohibit public charter schools from employing for-profit EMOs.

“Isn’t it ironic that you’re attacking public charter schools for employing for-profit vendors in the same meeting you approved approximately $7 million in contracts to for-profit vendors?” said Eddie Ableser, an advocate for public charter schools, during public testimony.

Four board members, Trustees Smith, Westlake, Mayberry, and Woodley, voted for the legislative priority plan. Two board members, Trustees Nicolet and Church, voted against the plan. Trustee Rodriguez was not present.

Trustee Nicolet cited concerns about the District targeting EMOs, and Trustee Church defended public charter schools' inclusivity for all students, including those with disabilities.

The Nevada Department of Education aims to set high standards for equity and quality in education. However, the implementation faces hurdles due to bureaucratic inefficiencies, debates over educational policies, and how best to address diverse student needs, including those with disabilities or requiring special education. While public charter schools operate with less funding per pupil (approx. 30% less), their operational flexibility has led to innovative approaches, resulting in a reputation for serving students with individual needs at a higher level than Washoe’s traditional public schools.

Nevada has around 80 public charter school campuses serving approximately 62,000 students, which makes up 13% of the state’s K-12 population. The academic results of public charter schools are held accountable by the State Public Charter School Authority, and the data suggests Nevada’s charter schools are excelling in comparison to their counterparts in traditional public schools. One-third of Nevada’s public charter schools are rated as 5-star schools by the Nevada State Performance Framework rating system, which ranks public schools on a 5-star scale. Overall, 73% are rated 3-stars or higher, significantly higher than the overall rate for nearly all traditional school districts.

According to faculty and parents of public charter school students, the Washoe School District's attacks on their students’ schools are because of their success in educational achievement. 

“Instead of focusing resources on improving Washoe Schools, the District prioritizes harming the public charter schools outperforming them in order to limit parental interest and choice, forcing them to accept the status quo within their traditional public schools,” said a Mater Academy parent.

The discussion around public charter schools versus traditional public schools often boils down to individual school performance, parental satisfaction, and educational options. However, for the proponents of prohibiting public charter schools from hiring for-profit EMOs, the complaints seem to be mostly aimed at Academica Nevada, which provides administration services for several public charter schools in Nevada. The percentage of revenue Washoe County Schools spend on administration is approximately 2% higher than the amount Academica Nevada receives from each school it supports in Northern Nevada. 

Trustees Smith and Woodley alleged that out-of-state Academica offices profit from Nevada taxpayers. According to records, the fees paid to Academica Nevada employ a professional staff of more than 60 Nevadans, including lawyers, accountants, administrators, and other professionals who work directly with the Nevada schools every day. Contracts and expense reports between Academica Nevada and the schools they service are publicly accessible for transparency and accountability.

The meeting underscores the complex dynamics within educational policy-making, with significant implications for Nevada’s public charter schools and the broader educational framework in Washoe County. Critics argue these policies could potentially disadvantage public charter school students, while proponents believe they will enhance the effectiveness of public education. The District's legislative priority plan, now set, will guide their educational policies in the coming years, affecting both students and educators across the region.

Senior Care Association Backs Medicare Advantage

Las Vegas, Nev. -- In a move to bolster health care options for Nevada's senior population, the Personal Care Association of Nevada (PCAN) has thrown its weight behind Medicare Advantage, a program that combines public health insurance with private sector management to serve over 33 million seniors and people with disabilities nationwide.

Robert Crockett, CEO of Advanced Personal Care Solutions, emphasized the importance of Medicare Advantage. "This program is not just beneficial; it's essential for senior care," he stated. "It provides comprehensive services under one umbrella, significantly simplifying healthcare access for our most vulnerable citizens."

Medicare Advantage plans are gaining popularity, with 53% of eligible Medicare beneficiaries choosing these plans over traditional Medicare due to their extensive benefits. These benefits include not only medical care but also dental, fitness, vision, and hearing services, which are becoming increasingly standard across these plans.

The program's appeal lies in its affordability and the breadth of services offered. "Medicare Advantage plans typically come with low monthly premiums and integrate services like nutrition guidance and wellness programs, which are crucial for maintaining or improving health in older age," explained Crockett.

PCAN's endorsement comes at a pivotal time as policymakers and candidates gear up for the upcoming elections. The association is calling on them to protect and potentially expand Medicare Advantage. "Our seniors and disabled community members deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing their healthcare is secure and comprehensive," Crockett added, urging political figures to make Medicare Advantage a priority in their campaigns.

This support from PCAN is seen as a strategic move to ensure that the voices advocating for better healthcare options for seniors are heard loud and clear in Nevada's political arena. As the election approaches, the healthcare debate, particularly concerning Medicare, is expected to intensify, with Medicare Advantage playing a central role in discussions on quality care for the aging population.

The endorsement not only reflects PCAN's commitment to its members but also underscores a broader trend of recognizing the value of integrated, high-quality care models like Medicare Advantage in enhancing the lives of the elderly and disabled.

Nevada Secretary of State release ballot guide

As Nevada gears up for the 2024 General Election, voters are set to weigh in on a series of significant ballot questions that could reshape various aspects of state law and governance. The Secretary of State’s Office has released the 2024 Ballot Question Guide to assist voters in understanding these critical issues.

Secretary of State Francisco Aguilar emphasized the importance of an informed electorate. "This year, Nevada citizens will have the opportunity to vote on crucial races and ballot questions that impact how we live, learn, or vote. The more informed we are, the better off our state will be," he stated.

The ballot guide, crafted to be accessible, provides straightforward explanations of the seven statewide ballot questions, arguments for and against each, and outlines what would happen should they pass. Notably, the guide is not only available in English but also in many other languages, aiming to reach a broad spectrum of Nevada's diverse population.

Here's a summary of the ballot questions voters will face:

• Question 1 aims to modify the powers of the Board of Regents of the Nevada System of Higher Education.

• Question 2 seeks to revise terms related to state support for individuals and entities.

• Question 3 proposes adopting open primaries and ranked-choice voting, potentially changing how elections are conducted.

• Question 4 would remove provisions allowing slavery and involuntary servitude as criminal punishment from the state constitution.

• Question 5 looks to exempt child and adult diapers from certain taxes.

• Question 6 is a pivotal measure to amend the constitution to make abortion access an individual right.

• Question 7 would require a voter ID, potentially affecting voting procedures statewide.

The guide also serves as a voter's manual for the election process, detailing key dates and procedures:

• Early Voting starts on October 19 and continues until November 1.

• Election Day is set for November 5, with polls open from 7 am to 7 pm.

• Voters can register or update their registration up to October 22 to receive a mail ballot.

• All active registered voters will receive a mail ballot unless they opt out, with the requirement that these ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received by November 9 to be counted.

Voters are encouraged to engage with the ballot guide to make informed decisions. The full guide can be accessed online, providing comprehensive details on each question and its potential impact on Nevada's future. This election promises to be a pivotal moment for the state, with the outcomes of these ballot questions potentially influencing policy, rights, and electoral processes for years to come.

Candidate calls for more campaign safety after being stalked

In the heart of the election campaign for the Nevada System of Higher Education's Board of Regents, candidate Tonia Holmes-Sutton has made a poignant plea for safety and respect among all participants. Amid rising tensions and personal experiences of stalking and intimidation, Holmes-Sutton calls for a unified front in maintaining the integrity and civility of the electoral process.

The call to action from Holmes-Sutton comes at a time when political discourse is increasingly polarized, not just in Las Vegas but nationwide. "Every candidate, volunteer, and voter deserves to participate in the electoral process without fear of intimidation or violence," Holmes-Sutton stated. This statement reflects a broader concern over the safety of political figures and the health of democratic engagement.

Holmes-Sutton, advocating for a safer campaign environment, recommends enhanced security at events and closer ties with law enforcement. She also encourages those facing harassment or threats, especially online, to report such incidents and seek support. "It's crucial for us to stand together," she remarked, emphasizing the role of community and professional services in combating digital threats.

The candidate's message extends beyond personal safety to fostering a positive and inclusive campaign atmosphere. "We must not allow fear and intimidation to undermine the democratic process," she added, highlighting the need for mutual respect and dignity in political discussions. This approach aims to counteract the divisive elements that often surface during election times, promoting a narrative of unity and progress.

Holmes-Sutton's initiative is not just about winning votes but about building a stronger community through a shared commitment to safety and respect. "By standing together and supporting one another, we can create a safer and more respectful environment for everyone involved," she concluded.

As the election season continues, Holmes-Sutton's call serves as a reminder of the values that should underpin democratic processes, urging all involved to engage constructively for the betterment of their community.