About Charter Schools

Charter schools are public schools, operating under a greater freedom than many of the regulations that apply to traditional schools.  Charter schools are typically started by parents, teachers, and/or community members, who establish the school's focus and mission, and determine how key performance metrics will be met.  Because charter schools are public, and funded by the State, school admission is nonsectarian, nondiscriminatory, and tuition-free. 

Charter schools differ from public schools in that they have much more flexibility to differentiate their approach to education and can have very focused learning objectives geared at their specific audience.  The autonomy charter schools enjoy creates an environment where creativity and innovation in teaching and learning flourish.  US Charter Schools details information on charter schools across the country.

Minnesota Charter Schools

In 1991, Minnesota lead the country and became the first state to pass a charter school law aimed at eliminating the barriers of conventional learning and encouraged innovative learning environments. 

In the fall of 2004, 17,000 students in Minnesota attended 105 charter schools.  In the 2008-2009 school year, the attendance increased over 50% to over 32,000 Minnesota students attending 153 charter schools.  The Minnesota Association of Charter Schools publishes a MN Public Charter School Directory, and offers resources on choosing a charter school.

Like any public school, charter schools are accountable to their stakeholders for achieving specific, measurable results in student performance.  The Minnesota Department of Education releases annual report cards for each public school in the state outlining the schools performance in academic achievement, school safety, student participation, parent satisfaction, and overall financial management.