Rules could renew Baton Rouge charter schools for a decade

Charter schools in Baton Rouge with strong academic performance would get their contracts renewed for longer, five to 10 years, under new but contested rules.

A separate proposal, however, was rejected that would have allowed D-rated charter schools in the Capital City that have shown good progress with their toughest students, the chance to add students and grade levels above what was outlined in their contracts.

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board on Thursday gave preliminary approval to update its charter school rules. A final vote is scheduled for Oct. 16.

The renewal and expansion proposals prompted lengthy discussion and split votes, amid renewed debate about whether charter schools should be allowed to expand in Baton Rouge.

Board members, however, voted unanimously to app