Charter Schools -- Frequently Asked Questions
What is a charter school?
A charter school is a public school that provides instruction in any combination of grades, kindergarten through twelve. Parent, teachers or community members may initiate a charter petition, which is typically presented to and approved by a local school district governing board.
Specific goals and operating procedures for a charter school are detailed in the agreement between the charter authorizing entity and the charter school developer.
Are charters public schools?
Yes. Charter schools are tuition-free public schools under the jurisdiction of the Public School System, as specified in California Education Code (EC) Section 47615.
Does it matter where I live? What is the attendance boundary?
As schools of choice, all charter schools are open to any student who wants to apply, regardless of where he or she lives, space permitting.
What is the legislative intent of charter schools?
The California Legislature enacted the Charter Schools Act in 1992 to authorize the establishment of charter schools. The purposes of charter schools, as specified in Education Code Section 47601 are to:
A charter school is a public school that provides instruction in any combination of grades, kindergarten through twelve. Parent, teachers or community members may initiate a charter petition, which is typically presented to and approved by a local school district governing board.
Specific goals and operating procedures for a charter school are detailed in the agreement between the charter authorizing entity and the charter school developer.
Are charters public schools?
Yes. Charter schools are tuition-free public schools under the jurisdiction of the Public School System, as specified in California Education Code (EC) Section 47615.
Does it matter where I live? What is the attendance boundary?
As schools of choice, all charter schools are open to any student who wants to apply, regardless of where he or she lives, space permitting.
What is the legislative intent of charter schools?
The California Legislature enacted the Charter Schools Act in 1992 to authorize the establishment of charter schools. The purposes of charter schools, as specified in Education Code Section 47601 are to:
- Improve student learning.
- Increase learning opportunities for all students.
- Encourage the use of different and innovative teaching methods.
- Creating new professional opportunities for teachers, including the opportunity to be responsible for the learning program at the school site.
- Provide parents and students with expanded educational opportunities within the public school system without the constraints of traditional rules and structure.
- Encourage parent and community involvement in public education.
