Charter schools group calls for special session after ruling

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — A national advocacy group is calling on Gov. Jay Inslee to order a special session of the Legislature so lawmakers can change a charter school law declared unconstitutional.

The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools said Saturday that nearly 1,200 students will be forced out of their current schools unless lawmakers take action.

The Washington, D.C.-based group says Inslee will be failing Washington state families who chose to enroll their children in charter schools if he does not call lawmakers into session.

The Washington Supreme Court ruled Friday that charter schools do not qualify as "common" schools under Washington's Constitution and cannot receive public funding intended for those traditional public schools.

The high court's order takes effect in 20 days.

Inslee's office said Friday the governor is reviewing the ruling and will be consulting with the attorney general's office.

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