Christie proposes reforms for state’s charter school rules

Gov. Chris Christie has proposed a series of changes to the state's charter school law, including allowing single-gender schools.

Christie announced the reforms at a conference for the state's charter schools in Atlantic City Thursday.

Among the reforms would be a requirement that school districts lease available school buildings to charter schools. Another change would expedite the renewal process for high-performing charters.

Christie says the changes are needed to heighten the benefits of what he described as "innovative, accountable learning environments for children." New Jersey has 89 charter schools.

Wendell Steinhauer, president of the state's largest teachers union, told NJ.com that he predicts the proposals will lead to increased charter expansion and less accountability.

The changes have to be approved by the state board of education.

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