DFER Urges Supreme Court to Uphold Public Status of Charter Schools

A decision in St. Isidore v. Drummond could redefine public education, opening the door for private and religious schools to operate as charter schools

(New York, NY, April 30, 2025) — Today, Democrats for Education Reform’s CEO Jorge Elorza released the following statement in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s hearing of St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School v. Drummond, a case that could fundamentally alter the definition of public charter schools:

“Democrats for Education Reform (DFER) is closely monitoring the Supreme Court’s consideration of Oklahoma Statewide Charter School Board and St. Isidore Of Seville Catholic Virtual School v. Gentner Drummond and its implications for the future of public charter schools.

“DFER urges the Supreme Court to uphold the decision of the Oklahoma Supreme Court, which, by a 6-2 majority, affirmed that charter schools are public schools. By law, charter schools have always been considered public schools in every state. However, a ruling in favor of St. Isidore could, for the first time, declare that charter schools are private schools—not governmental entities or state actors—and therefore can be religious.

“Such a decision would likely force states to revisit and revise their charter laws, creating disruption and uncertainty for charter schools and the four million students they serve. Delivering great results for children is already challenging and this decision would complicate matters even further. 

“Regardless of the outcome, DFER remains committed to protecting the rights of students and families to access a high-quality public education. We urge policymakers to make this their priority.”

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