As a retired teacher, I am appalled by charter schools’ derogatory television ads.

My 43-year-old autistic son was a special education student and is now living in a great group home. I often wonder what would have been his educational development if he had to depend on charter schools.

During my retirement I published two books: “Reflections on 30 Years of Teaching in East Harlem” and “Autism & Parents with Autistic Children.” Teaching in the public schools greatly impacted my educational experiences and gave me substance for writing.

Gilbert M. Lane, retired