Charter schools are public schools that operate independently through a contract (or charter) made between state officials and community or school leaders. Although they are publicly funded and tuition-free, they act more like private schools, in that they operate outside of many of the traditional regulations of the public system, such as how to hire teachers, the academic focus, and even the number of days and hours students must attend.
Why might a parent consider a charter school?
- Charters provide an alternative to assigned schools.
- Some charter schools offer special subject matter focus, such as science, engineering, art, music, or business.
- A charter school may offer extended learning time (longer school day, week, and/or year).
- Innovative teaching methods may be employed there.