Interview with Nelson Smith on School's Out! Wrap-up by Nelson Smith

Whew! So this is what they mean by a "longer school day!"

What a terrific bunch of panelists and questioners this has been.

It was great hearing from Ken Campbell in Doha; Qatar is one of many countries that are now trying out various forms of 'chartered" schooling.

And we really benefitted from the student voices today - -thanks Kinyette and Joseph. Sometimes those of us who work in associations and advocacy outfits get a little detached from the classroom -- and you were a great reminder of what this whole movement is all about.

Our learned colleagues Gregg Vanourek and Todd Zeibarth, online from Denver, gave us plenty to think about too. Be on the lookout for Todd's latest opus, a look at the "market share" charters are gaining in all sorts of places around the country. (Hint: We're on the march. Or more to the point, families are on the march, and we're trying get around caps and dollar limits and other #&^%#^&#% that keeps charter schools from meeting the demand!!)

I must say that I particularly enjoyed Morgan Brown's contribution. First time I've ever seen someone do a live, online chat With Footnotes! He's certainly hit the ground running at DOE as as you can see, he's terrifically well-informed about what makes this movement tick.

Andy, Alex and Joe, the Three Bloggers: Now I have some additional ideas for "guest artists" on our own Charter Blog. Thanks, guys.

And of course, thanks to Dave Angerer, Kathleen Pecic, and Shirley Rodriguez -- whose perspective as parents is the most important of all in our movement. It was great to end the day with the real "customers."

Can't end with a tip of the hat to my colleague Colleen Sutton, who thought this whole event up, and managed its many components. Thanks!

So --onward and upward. And keep in touch!

Class Dismissed!!