Charter School Students FAQ

The charter school movement continues to grow year after year. Today estimates of 3 million students attend more than 6,700 charter schools in the United States. Who are these students and how are they being better served by charter schools? We are here today to answer your questions!

How are students chosen? Charter schools are required to take all students who want to attend. Enrollment is voluntary and any student living in the district in which the charter is located may enroll. Lotteries may be held if applications exceed the school’s capacity by class, grade level or building capacity. Unlike magnet schools which are governed by school districts, public charter schools cannot selectively admit students.

Do charter schools serve English Learners? Department of Education survey data shows that 10 percent of charter school students are ELs, compared to 9 percent of students in traditional public schools. EL students are showing great academic success in charter schools.

Do charter schools serve students with disabilities? Federal law requires charter schools to comply with all the requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and students with disabilities are thriving in charter schools.