Feds Question Charter Schools’ Foreign-Teacher Hiring Practices
The U.S. Department of Labor is currently examining the hiring practices of a group of charter schools in Ohio. Specifically, they are looking into the employment of Turkish school employees who were hired using special federal visas in the past few years. The Horizon Science academies, which consist of three schools in Columbus and a total of 17 schools statewide, are part of Concept Schools, a network of charter schools that also operates Noble Academy in Columbus. This network was established by Turkish scientists and focuses on science, math, and technology.
The main concern revolves around Horizon’s use of federal H-1B visas, which allow the hiring of foreign workers in specialized occupations, such as engineers, teachers, computer programmers, doctors, and physical therapists. While the Labor Department does not confirm ongoing investigations, it has requested relevant documents from the schools. Scott Allen, a spokesman for the department, has stated that the schools were asked to provide these documents.
Concept Schools officials have addressed the issue with a letter to parents and employees, explaining that the schools used to cover immigration-related fees for the family members of some visa-using employees. The letter states that approximately $13,000 in expenses were paid on behalf of 19 employees. It is permissible for employers to cover these fees, but using public funds for their relatives is not allowed. In response, the state auditor launched audits in 2001 and 2005, resulting in findings against certain Horizon schools. The money was later repaid by 2007, according to audit documents.
Salim Ucan, the vice president of Concept Schools, signed the letter and assured parents and employees that less than 9 percent of all Horizon employees are currently working utilizing these visas. He expressed pride in their teachers and their dedication to education. Onder Sechen, the director of the Horizon Science Academy elementary and middle schools, stated in an email that there is no known investigation into the Columbus schools by federal or state authorities.
According to the Department of Labor regulations, employers who fail to comply with the guidelines associated with H-1B visas may face future restrictions on utilizing the visas and fines ranging from $1,000 to $35,000 depending on the severity of the violation.
