A charter school is a publicly funded school that operates independently of the traditional public school district. These schools are free to attend and are held accountable for student performance under a contract, or charter, with an authorizing body. In short, charter schools are public schools that have more flexibility in their teaching methods and curriculum in exchange for meeting specific academic goals.
How charter schools work
Charter schools are created by a group of parents, teachers, or community leaders who apply for a charter from a state or local authorizer, such as a school district or a university. The charter outlines the school’s mission, academic goals, and operational plan. If approved, the school receives public funding based on enrollment, just like traditional public schools.
In return for this funding, charter schools must meet the performance targets written in their charter. If they fail to meet these targets for several years, the authorizer can revoke the charter and close the school. This accountability model is a key difference from traditional public schools.
As of June 2026, over 7,800 charter schools operate in the United States, serving more than 3.7 million students. Charter schools are most common in states like California, Texas, Florida, and Arizona.
Charter schools vs. traditional public schools
Understanding the differences between charter schools and traditional public schools can help you decide which option fits your child’s needs. Below is a comparison of key features.
| Feature | Charter Schools | Traditional Public Schools |
|---|---|---|
| Funding | Public funds based on enrollment | Public funds from local and state taxes |
| Admission | Open to all; lottery if oversubscribed | Assigned by residential address |
| Curriculum | Flexible; can be specialized (e.g., STEM, arts) | Follows state and district standards |
| Teacher certification | May not require state certification | Must hold state certification |
| Accountability | Held to charter performance goals | Held to state and district standards |
| Union representation | Often non-unionized | Usually unionized |
Benefits of charter schools
Charter schools offer several advantages that appeal to many families. Here are some of the most commonly cited benefits:
- Choice and flexibility: Parents can choose a school that matches their child’s learning style or interests, such as a school focused on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), arts, or language immersion.
- Innovation: Charter schools can experiment with teaching methods, school schedules, and curriculum without being bound by district rules. This can lead to creative approaches like project-based learning or longer school days.
- Smaller class sizes: Many charter schools intentionally keep class sizes smaller to provide more individualized attention. However, this is not guaranteed and varies by school.
- Community involvement: Because charter schools are often started by local groups, they tend to have strong parent and community engagement. Many require parents to volunteer a certain number of hours each year.
Drawbacks and challenges
Charter schools also face criticism and challenges. One common concern is that they can drain resources from traditional public schools because funding follows the student. This can leave district schools with less money to serve the students who remain.
Another issue is that charter schools may have fewer services for students with special needs or English language learners. While charter schools cannot legally discriminate, some studies suggest they enroll lower percentages of these students compared to traditional public schools.
Additionally, because charter schools can be closed for poor performance, families may face disruption if their child’s school shuts down. It is important to research a charter school’s track record before enrolling.
How to apply to a charter school
Applying to a charter school is typically straightforward. Most schools have an open enrollment period once a year, usually in the spring. You will need to fill out an application form, which is often available online.
If more students apply than there are seats available, the school will hold a random lottery. Some states give enrollment preference to students who live in the same district or who have siblings already attending the school. After the lottery, you will be notified if your child receives a spot.
What to look for when choosing a charter school
Before you apply, take time to evaluate a charter school. Visit the school’s website and read its charter document, which explains its mission and goals. Attend an open house or schedule a tour to see the school in action.
Ask about the school’s academic performance, teacher qualifications, and how they support students with different learning needs. Also check whether the school provides transportation and meals, as not all charter schools offer these services.
Finally, talk to other parents whose children attend the school. Their firsthand experience can give you a realistic picture of what to expect.
Final thoughts
Charter schools are a popular option for families seeking an alternative to traditional public education. They offer flexibility and choice, but they also come with trade-offs in terms of resources and services. By understanding how charter schools work and carefully researching your options, you can make an informed decision that supports your child’s education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are charter schools free?
Yes, charter schools are public schools and are free to attend. They cannot charge tuition.
Do charter schools have to follow state standards?
Yes, charter schools must meet state academic standards and administer state assessments, but they have flexibility in how they teach the material.
Can my child be expelled from a charter school?
Yes, charter schools can expel students for disciplinary reasons, though they must follow due process and state laws. Expulsion rates vary by school.
How are charter schools funded?
Charter schools receive public funding based on the number of students enrolled, typically from state and local education funds. They do not receive funding for facilities in many states.
What happens if a charter school closes?
If a charter school closes, students are usually transferred to a nearby traditional public school or another charter school. Parents should have a backup plan for this possibility.
