what exactly are charter schools - how do they differ from regular schools?

Answer 1

Charter schools are innovative public schools providing choices for families and greater accountability for results.

Chartering allows schools to run independently of the traditional public school system and to tailor their programs to community needs. While not every new school is extraordinarily innovative and some school operations may mirror that of traditional public schools, policymakers, parents, and educators are looking at chartering as a way to increase educational choice and innovation within the public school system.

Charter schools are public schools of choice, meaning teachers and students choose them. They operate with freedom from many regulations that apply to traditional public schools. They generally offer teachers and students more authority to make decisions than most traditional public schools. Instead of being accountable for compliance with rules and regulations, they are accountable for academic results and for upholding their charter. To learn more about what sets charter schools apart from their counterparts

Answer 2

Just want to make clear that charter schools are a form of public school and can NOT charge any kind of tuition for attending, it would be against the law in any state.

Charter schools vary a lot in terms of their focus - some act as magnets for smart kids others focus on serving the particular needs of the inner city, while others may focus on the arts, technology, or other areas as part of their curriculum. Therefore, generalizing charters is impossible...if you're considering one for your child you should go check it out, meet with the director, and see if this is the right fit for your particular child.

First answer from tallgirl819 is spot on. I would encourage checking out the website she offered and most states have non-profit charter resource centers/associations that can provide detailed information about each charter school in their state.

Answer 3

Charter schools are kinda like public schools and kinda like private schools. They have a set of rules they have to follow which vary by county, might be city level and might be state level, but the rules do vary. The parents pay for the school but it is nowhere near the amount of a private school. They are partially govt funded. You see alot of kids who were expelled form public high schools in charter schools. Generally aren't all that they are made out to be. Private or home is the only way to go nowadays.