Are Charter Schools public or private?

 

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Charter schools are a type of public school, not private, but they operate with more autonomy than traditional public schools. They are tuition-free and open to all students, funded by public dollars, but have more flexibility in their curriculum and operations in exchange for higher levels of accountability to meet performance standards.  

Key Characteristics of Charter Schools

• Publicly Funded:

  Like traditional public schools, charter schools receive public funding and are tuition-free. 

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How They Differ from Private Schools 

• Funding:

  Private schools are non-governmental, operate independently of school districts, are not funded by public dollars, and are supported by private sources.
• Autonomy:

  Private schools have greater freedom to set their own curriculum, enrollment requirements, and operational policies, without the same level of public accountability as charter schools.
• Accountability:

  Private schools are not bound by the same accountability standards or public record requests as public schools because they do not receive public funding.

• Understanding Charter Schools vs. Public Schools

  Aug 20, 2025 — Charter schools are publicly funded, tuition-free schools, but they differ from traditional public schools in key ways...

  

  U.S. News & World Report

  
  

Independent Operation:

They have a high degree of autonomy and operate under a "charter" — a contract with a school district, state agency, or other authorizing body. 

Accountability:

In exchange for their independence, charter schools are subject to higher levels of accountability to meet specific student performance standards. 

Alternative to Traditional Public Schools:

They serve as an alternative to zoned public schools, offering unique educational approaches and programs. 

Subject to Regulations:

While they have operational freedom, charter schools are still required to follow state education laws. 

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