FAQs on Charter Schools
Charter schools are public or private, and do not require tuition. School choice is extremely important for many parents. Charter schools provide such a choice to parents without the additional tuition requirements of private schools. Forty states, including the District of Columbia, allow for the creation of charter schools under state law.
Q: What is a charter school?
A: A charter school is a school established by a charter which details the school’s mission, programs, goals and assessment methods. Most charters are granted for 3-5 years, after which time the supporters of the charter can renew the school’s contract. Charter schools enjoy increased autonomy, and in return, they are accountable to meet the goals outlined in their charter and risk the charter being revoked or non-renewed.
Q: How are charter schools different from public schools?
A: Most charter schools operate under three basic principles: choice, accountability, and freedom. Families have the opportunity to select the charter school they feel best suited for their child. Charter schools operate based on goals established by their charter contract, and judged based on how well their students meet those goals. Charter schools are free from operating under intense regulation and red tape that traditional public schools are forced to operate under, so they can focus on academics instead.
Q: What makes charter schools so popular?
A: The quality of the education they provide is directly correlated to the higher standards they operate under. Charter schools focus on the students and do not stay in operation long if they do not meet the goals set forth by their founding charter. Charter schools also improve the community by engaging local businesses and community organizations to help provide resources to the school and the families.
Q: Who can found a charter school?
A: Charter schools can be started by anyone submitting a charter school proposal to their state’s authorizing party. They are authorized by the local school board, state universities, community colleges, and the state board of education.
Q: How do charter schools receive funding?
A: Charter schools do not charge tuition. They are funded according to their enrollment. They are entitled to receive federal funding based on categorical spending, for which their students are eligible. Federal grants are also available to help mitigate start up costs.
Q: What is the enrollment process for charter schools?
A: Parents of potential students should contact each charter school to inquire about openings. In the event there are more applicants than open slots, a lottery is instituted to fill remaining slots.