What Is A Charter School?

A place for kids and their families to thrive! A charter school is a free public school. It does not charge tuition. It is nonsectarian. They are not affiliated with any religious group. They are not private schools.

A charter school is funded from state and federal money. Charter schools receive funding just like other public schools. The fundamental concept of educational choice is that public dollars are provided to educate a particular student. They are not entitlements for school systems. A charter school typically serves an under served group of students and their families.

A charter school is accountable for academic improvement. Accountability is based on a contract between the charter school, their sponsor and the MN Department of Education (MDE), in which student outcomes are defined. The continued existence of the school depends on these outcomes being met. If the school does not show academic improvement for its students, it can be closed. This is not true for other public schools.

A charter school is accountable for meeting regulatory and fiscal rules. Like public schools, charter schools must meet health, safety, accounting and general regulations. Charter schools must also meet State Graduation Standards. Charter schools primarily use licensed Minnesota educators. This is the same as for all public schools. A charter school is given some autonomy in return for accountability. Charter schools are given some freedom within curriculum and education delivery, but they must prove academic improvement.

Benefits of A Charter School

The intention of charter school legislation is to:

One difference between other public schools and charter schools is that a charter school is school of choice. It is actively chosen by parents, educators, students and community. No one is assigned to be there.