There are nearly 8,000 public charter schools in the United States, serving 3-and-a-half million students. But parents, teachers and thought leaders have a range of views on their role in public education. What are some of the unique challenges administrators face today when establishing and managing a charter school? Do charter schools spark innovation and improvement in the school system at large, or draw resources away from traditional public schools? And how much is the public sentiment regarding charter schools based on the politics of the day?

This week, Kevin is joined by Ian Rowe to discuss the purpose and importance of charter schools.