What is a Charter School?

Charter schools are free, public schools that are independently operated and exchange a high accountability for a high degree of autonomy. 

• There are no admissions tests or tuition.  Charter schools are open to every student within the public school system who wishes to enroll.
• If demand exceeds available seats, charters hold a lottery to determine admission.
• Charters exchange significant autonomy for greater accountability over results. This autonomy allows charters to offer:
  
  • A longer school day and school year;
  • Freedom to attract and hire the best teachers, regardless of credentials;
  • Greater control and flexibility over curriculum.
• Freedom to be innovative and a commitment to improving public education.

To learn more about charter schools and their results versus traditional public schools check out these publications.

• Catalyst Chicago, Independent Reporting on Urban Schools: To keep and graduate freshmen, turn to charter schools for answers
• National Alliance for Public Charter Schools: Measuring Charter Performance: A Review of Charter Achievement Studies