Mayor Walker: Parkland Explores Feasibility of City-Run Charter Schools to Address Growing Demand

by Guest Contributer September 2, 2025

64Shares

Parkland Mayor Rich Walker.

A Message from Mayor Rich Walker

This summer, I asked City of Parkland staff to conduct a feasibility study on the possibility of the City opening charter schools or converting existing district-run schools into City-run charter schools. While it is a bold idea, the reason for it is pretty simple – I want to make sure Parkland students will have sustainable and appropriate educational options now – and for generations to come.

After a new state law making it easier for cities to open charter schools recently became effective, I thought it was prudent, as Mayor, for me to find out more. In this instance, if City-run charter schools were to become a feasible option, Parkland parents would have an important role in determining whether charter schools are the answer.

This is just a concept now, of course, and as a father of school-age children, we are all grateful for our A-rated Broward County Public Schools in Parkland. But, if you are a Parkland resident, you know our school story. While enrollment in Broward County Public Schools is waning in several other schools throughout the district, demand for our Broward Schools in Parkland is at an all-time high and in many instances, tipping scales on our current space. And, as an example, our sole charter school – Somerset Parkland Academy – is thriving, with the majority of enrollment consisting of Parkland students. We all share the same priorities – keeping Parkland students in Parkland schools and keeping our community together.

I am hoping to learn something from this feasibility study by this fall. But regardless of where the feasibility study takes us, I feel encouraged, knowing that I shared and acted on an idea to benefit the young learners and future leaders throughout our community. I encourage you to do the same.

Many of us have ideas in our minds, waiting in the wings – that beg further exploration – something that may benefit others. If I am describing you, consider that we don’t and shouldn’t always have the luxury of holding onto ideas that can evolve into solutions.

If you have a positive, community-minded idea, bring it forward. Share it with others, hone it, and discuss ways it could help our community. Your ideas could serve as catalysts for excellence, innovation, and a blueprint for things to come.

Simply put, it just may be exactly what we need.

If you would like to share your thoughts on charter school conversion or City-run charter schools in general, I would love to hear from you. I can be reached via e-mail at rwalker@cityofparkland.org, or via cell phone at (973) 390-1453. Of course, I am frequently available monthly at Parkland businesses and love to talk with residents there. I encourage you to visit the City’s website cityofparkland.org and click on the social media icon that you prefer, to ensure that you stay informed on events and helpful information.

Send your news to Parkland’s #1 Award-Winning News Source, Parkland Talk.