What is a Charter School?
Charter schools are free public schools that are relieved from many of the rules and regulations governing traditional district schools. This freedom allows charters to map their own path to innovation and it is hoped, educational quality. In return for this operational freedom, charter schools enter into performance agreements with an authorizer, and if a school fails to live up to its agreement, the authorizer can revoke the charter or chose not to renew it.
Charter public schools must meet the same academic standards that all other public schools are required to meet. They are:
- Tuition free and open to all students;
- Nonsectarian and do not discriminate on any basis;
- Publicly funded by state and federal tax dollars based on enrollment, like other public schools; and
- Held accountable for meeting state and federal academic standards.
Charter public schools are schools of choice, meaning students and parents have to want to attend a particular school and make a proactive decision to do so. If the school does not meet their needs, they can find another school that does. Because children are so varied in their needs and abilities, no single educational model works for all students in all circumstances. Charters allow parents and students to find schools that work best for their specific needs.
“About Idaho Charter Schools.” Idaho Charter School Network, idahocsn.org/charters/.
How are Charter Schools Funded?
Charter school students receive the same state and federal dollars as traditional school district students (these funds follow students to their school of choice), but they do not receive local tax dollars. Further, unlike traditional public schools, charter schools are not permitted to participate in local bond issues to fund their facilities.
"Funding" Idaho Charter School Network, idahocsn/charters/.
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