[canalabamian]

Same here in NW FL. I have three in charter schools and we have been very pleased. Of course, the admin is on top of things, so that helps. Lottery is the method of entry here, too. There are still complaints that they cherry pick students, but the lotteries are open to the public, and both schools are smack dab in the middle of the county's demographics racially, socially, and economically. The biggest difference I see is the ability to get rid of kids who are trouble...and heavy parental involvement/volunteer requirements, which I think attracts the parents who are interested and involved in their kids’ lives.

[BBell]

It is the same way here. They get rid of the kids who cause trouble pronto and there is heavy parental involvement. It would surprise a lot of people here on FR at how many ghetto types are very willing to go the distance to ensure their children have a better chance at life then they ever did.