Estimating the Impact of Charter Schools on Postsecondary and Labor Market Success: Policy and Equity Implications of Differential Benefits

• In Event: 75.041 - MTCC Roundtable Session 33
  In Roundtable Session: 75.041-9 - Charter Schools: Defining and Measuring Success

Abstract

To date, the majority of the extant charter school efficacy literature has focused on effects on K-12 student test scores. The few studies that have estimated the impact of charter schools on post-secondary and labor market outcomes (degree attainment, employment and earnings) have found different results, and neither specifically addressed issues of differential benefits by student race and implications for educational equity. We use a rich statewide P-20 and beyond student-level data system from 2006-07 through to 2016-17 (11 years) to assess the impacts of charters in Georgia and conduct mediation and moderation analyses to strengthen potential causal claims and extend our understanding of the channels through which charter schools impact long run outcomes.

Authors

• Walker Swain, University of Georgia - Athens

• Richard Welsh, University of Georgia