In the context of the diminishing numbers of African American teachers in special education, reviews the literature relevant to the disparity between the cultures of educators and students, the subjugation of minority students into inequitable learning environments, ineffective teacher recruiting practices, and the inability to provide…

A review of the research and a look at some assumptions about charter schools suggests that charter schools do have the potential to help teachers improve instruction. The effectiveness of charter school reforms emerges from common focus and a certain level of teacher self-determination. (SLD)