Matt Plain quoted in Providence Journal article on appeal of threatened probation of charter school
PROVIDENCE (June 4, 2010) – As Rhode Island school officials weigh the future of a Providence charter elementary and middle school, Taylor Duane is representing the school in its battle to renew its charter.
Despite a substantial improvement of student test scores at the Highlander Charter School in recent years, Rhode Island Education Commissioner Deborah A Gist is recommending that the 10-year school be placed on probation for one year. Citing mixed student test scores that are lower than state averages, she wants to close the school if student test scores don’t improve this fall.
Associate Matt Plain was quoted by the Providence Journal in an article reporting on the school’s request that Gist withdraw her recommendation that it be placed on probation for one year.
“The data doesn’t support their justification for making the recommendation,” Plain told the Journal.
The firm is arguing that the school is being held to new, tougher standards Gist has not yet clearly articulated, the publication reported.
The firm is also representing families of students at the school.
About Taylor Duane
Taylor Duane is one of New England’s leading civil litigation law firms with offices in Boston and Providence. It represents educational institutions, professionals and students in all aspects of school law. The Providence Business News has named the firm as one of Rhode Island’s Best Places to Work for three consecutive years (2008-10).
