"New York Charter Parents Association launches the first one-stop charter application center"

Online, January 10, 2010 (Newswire.com) - /New York, NY/---------New York Charter Parents Association (NYCPA) is launching the first one-stop application center for parents seeking to apply to charter schools. For the first time, public school parents have a centralized walk-in location where they can consult with a NYCPA parent leader and apply to a charter school or multiple charter schools.

Opponents of charter schools have long argued that the process is too arduous, too time-consuming and creams the most technologically savvy parents. Opponents have also claimed the search raises hopes of parents seeking educational alternatives and learning support for their children only to be met with disappointment when they are unable to complete the process. The new NYCPA center addresses those concerns and works directly with the parents seeking improvement in their child's education opportunities with tailored counseling and services.

Parents may call the application hotline at (646) 205-3250 to schedule a daytime or evening appointment and speak to a NYCPA parent leader and learn more about public school choice and charter schools.

Mona Davids, Founder & President of the New York Charter Parents Association said "Many parents have fears and misconceptions about charters due to the intense opposition from politically connected institutions."

Ms. Davids also said that "Recent studies have shown, comparing apples to apples, that Charters are working for children. We seek to educate parents that they have public school choices for their kids. NYCPA believes every child should have equal access to a quality education"

In addition, to the newly launched application center and hotline, NYCPA also has a parent training academy teaching parents how to organize and advocate for their child's education and school, seek member items and be actively engaged and involved with their child's education. Workshops provided by NYCPA include Special Education and English Language Learner Workshops for parents educating them on No Child Left Behind (NCLB), Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in order to become effective advocates for their child. The Parent Power workshop helps parents start parent organizations.