RE: Question 2: Non-traditional education

Question: What should the role of state be?

I think the state should not restrict these models of education and they should encourage their use.  I think you should have a hands-off approach to these areas when it comes to requirements and allow them to be what they are, alternative approaches.  They shouldn't be bogged down with unnecessary paper work etc. but stream lined to ensure what is already working stays successful --without all the bureaucratic red tape that seems to have bogged down the public schools systems.  

On a personal note:  my child is enrolled in a charter home school.  Parent participation and flexibility for curriculum are what make this most attractive.  Studies are showing that home-schooled children are outperforming private and public schooled children and are entering the work force as productive people in society.  I can find opportunities for learning in non-traditional (school room) styles that enhance my child's education.  I can also spend additional time where it's needed and not have a lot of busy work to fill the gap of having a large body of kids to work with.  If my child is excelling, she doesn't have to wait, she can move ahead.  
  
These approaches can help all kinds of children at various stages from those who may not be able to perform well for many reasons or those who out perform the average child.  This is the sector that seems to be working, why impose standards that may curtail their success?  Accountability, needs to be measured in non-traditional ways set by these schools, since they are achieving certain goals that may not initially appear to meet the same requirements, but in the long run may out perform those requirements set by the state.

I also think that there should be some education of the availability of these alternative programs so that those in the educational system and parents understand there is another resource for children.  

I think they should be recognized as valuable options and not have to compete for limited funding etc. but would be embraced and allowed to function for the good of the children.