Charter schools receive public funding but operate independently. They are free to attend, secular, and open to all students. Charters create contracts called "charters" that establish their mission, goals, and procedures. Funding models vary between states. Most funding comes from the state based on enrollment. Charters rarely receive local taxes or facilities funds that school districts get. Supplemental income can come from private grants and donations. Concerns exist about funding gaps between charters and traditional public schools.
Funding Models
Charter schools are publicly funded but independently operated schools. They receive public funding based on enrollment but less funding per student than traditional public schools. Funding for charters is complex, varying wildly between states and even districts. In most cases, charters get funds based on per-pupil revenue according to average daily attendance. However, they usually do not get operations funds from residential taxes that districts collect. Understanding charter funding mechanisms is crucial to grasp their financial sustainability and quality.
Local funding for schools comes from cities, counties, and districts themselves. But charters do not get property tax increases from local voters to supplement costs like districts can. It is hard for charters to use taxpayer-funded bonds for buildings and repairs.
Charter School Operations and Accountability
Charter schools are public schools established by teachers, parents, and community groups. A national or local authority oversees what is taught. Charters are not private schools. Private schools use private funds while charters use public taxes. Charters are managed by teachers, parents, universities, and organizations wanting alternative options. They are subject to accountability in exchange for autonomy.
Authorizers oversee charters, ensuring they meet charter goals. If not meeting goals, authorizers can shut them down. Many charters are nonprofit but some contract for-profit companies to manage.
The difference with public schools is charters operate autonomously through individual charters with states dictating rules and standards. This diverse range of schools is spreading rapidly across America.