With more than 5 percent of lee county's students enrolled in one of seven charter schools, with seven more slated to open by the end of 2007, questions still persist regarding the profitability of charter school companies. But Elinor Scricca and her colleagues on the Lee County School Board recognize that, just like any business, it takes time for charter schools to succeed.

An educator for more than 35 years, Scricca's passion to educate and enlighten students didn't end when she retired. Concerned with how the school system was being managed, she ran for the Lee County School Board and was elected in 2002. She became chairperson in November 2004.

Scricca, who is fluent in French, Italian and Spanish, was a demonstration schoolteacher in the foreign language curriculum at Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, of which she is an alumnus. She also authored a $1-million "Community Synergy" grant combining the amenities of two separate school programs. An advocate of parental involvement in education, Scricca now applies her academic and administrative skills to improving Lee County schools. And her expertise includes charter schools.

1. What is a charter school?

They're public schools operating under performance contracts with the school district. Charter applicants may be individuals, teachers, parents, municipalities or legal entities organized under state law.

2. Why is the charter school system popular?

Charters provide parents choices within public school systems. Choices are based on individual student and parental needs when contemplating schools, such as location, school size, grade level configuration-like K-5, K-8 or K-12-transportation services and uniforms.

3. What does the district look for in a financially and academically successful charter school?

Charters must meet contractual goals with specific performance expectations equivalent to district schools. They must abide by the state's Education Accountability System for academics and class-size amendments. District monitoring includes reviews of quarterly revenues and expenditures, annual Audited Financial Reports, and student achievement.

4. What is the relationship between the charter school board and the Lee County School Board?

There is a contractual relationship between the school board and a non-profit entity; the latter elects a charter board that may contract with a for-profit agency for goods and services. The school board monitors the academics and finances of charters, providing oversight and support.

5. What are a charter school's responsibilities in regards to food and transportation?

Charters are required to provide transportation [within a two- to four-mile radius] and food service through approved contracts with private suppliers or the school district.