What Is a Public Charter?

A public charter is an alternative, independent public school that seeks to improve student achievement through different learning techniques and philosophies by focusing on innovation beyond conventional teaching methods.

Characteristics

• Public charters do not charge tuition, have no restrictions as to who can attend, and are not based on any religion or faith. They are funded by public school tax dollars, must meet all legislated standards for academic institutions, and employ certified teachers to teach public school curriculum.

Purpose

• Public charters are established to provide more options in teaching and learning experiences. Some public charters begin as outreach methods for some students, while others are established to meet the needs of gifted children.

Debate

• Advantages to public charters include having the opportunity to promote and deliver a quality education apart from the uniform delivery method, a wider base of educational institutions from which parents choose for their children to attend, and their objectives to eliminate the achievement gap that exists for some students. Negatives to public charters include the lost commonality of teaching and learning within the public school system, and the undermining of public schools' ability to deliver their educational mandate.