Myth-Busting: Common Misconceptions About Charter Schools

Myth #1: Charter schools aren’t public schools.

Charter schools are public schools! Charter schools are publicly funded and are tuition-free. The difference between traditional public schools and charter schools is that charter schools operate under a charter or contract, and thus have more independence in staffing, curriculum, and budgeting. In exchange for independence and flexibility, charter schools are held accountable by their authorizer. If charter schools do not meet their performance standards, their charter can be revoked, and the school may be closed. 

Myth #2: Charter schools handpick students.

Charter schools are legally required to be open to all students, and may not establish specific enrollment priorities for students, similar to traditional public schools. Charter schools are legally prohibited from invoking discriminatory practices, including performance in their previous school. 

Myth #3: Charter schools don’t serve students with special needs.

Charter schools are required by federal law to provide special education services and serve students with disabilities. They must comply with the same state and federal regulations that traditional public schools follow. Charter schools may not deny a student admission based on a disability.

Myth #4: Teachers at charter schools aren’t certified.

Teachers at charter schools in Minnesota must have a valid teaching license for the position in which they are employed for. Per the MN Association of Charter Schools, State funding may be decreased if a school employs a teacher who does not hold the required license or approval from the MN Board of Teaching. 

Myth #5: Charter schools drain money from public schools.

Charter schools are public schools. This means the money that is used on a student who attends a charter school remains within the public education system. The money is not being taken away from the traditional public schools, rather, it follows the student’s choice of education. Funding for both traditional public schools and charter schools are based on enrollment.