FAQ

What is a charter school?

A charter school is a public school of choice that operates with freedom from many of the regulations that apply to traditional public schools. The "charter" establishing each school is a performance contract detailing the school's mission, program, goals, students served, methods of assessment, and ways to measure success. Charter schools are accountable for producing positive academic results and adhering to the charter contract. The basic concept of charter schools is that they exercise increased autonomy in return for this accountability.

The intention of a charter school is to:

• Increase opportunities for learning and access to quality education for all students
• Create choice for parents and students within the public school system
• Provide a system of accountability for results in public education
• Encourage innovative teaching practices
• Encourage community and parent involvement in public education

How do charter schools differ from traditional district public schools?

Charter schools operate from 3 basic principles:

• Accountability - Charter schools are held accountable for how well they educate children in a safe and responsible environment. They are judged on how well they meet the student achievement goals established by their charter, and how well they manage the fiscal and operational responsibilities entrusted to them. Charter schools must operate lawfully and responsibly, with the highest regard for equity and excellence.
• Choice - Parents, teachers, community groups, organizations, or individuals interested in creating additional educational opportunities for children can start charter schools. Students choose to attend.
• Autonomy - Charter schools are freed from the traditional bureaucracy and regulations that divert a school's energy and resources toward compliance rather than excellence. Proponents of charter schools argue that instead of jumping through procedural hoops and over paperwork hurdles, educators can focus on setting and reaching high academic standards for their students.

How much does it cost to attend a Charter School?

Charter Schools are tuition free. They are public schools and funding for the schools come from federal, state, and local taxes, just as traditional public schools are funded. Many charter schools often have voluntary fundraisers but charter schools do not charge tuition.

Do charter schools have admission policies? Do you "pick" who attends?

By law, charter schools must have a fair and open admission process, conducting outreach and recruitment to all segments of the community they serve. Charter schools, are public schools and therefore we cannot "choose" which students attend. Like other public schools, we are nonsectarian and nondiscriminatory in admission and employment practices. Our students are admitted on a first-come, first served basis, or by lottery when applicants exceed available slots. No tuition is charged.