FAQ: Difference Between Charter and Magnet Schools

With all the many school choice options available today, it is easy to become confused. To help ease some of that confusion we are going to highlight the similarities and difference between charter and magnet schools.

• Creation:
  • Magnet schools are created by local school boards as the result of a democratic decision to construct a school for a special purpose. Many magnets have a special curricular focus such as arts, academics, science or engineering.
  • A charter school proposal can be submitted to the state’s charter authorizing entity by parents, community leaders, social entrepreneurs, businesses, teachers, school districts, or municipalities. Many are created to provide the community with an educational opportunity that does not currently exist and are based on a mission statement which includes a set of core values.
• Enrollment:
  • Magnet schools exist outside of zoned school boundaries. Children are usually enrolled based on their interest in the school’s theme, not based upon where they live. Some magnet schools are able to choose students based on certain admissions criteria, such as standardized testing.
    
  • Public charter schools must be undiscriminating and cannot selectively admit students. Enrollment is voluntary and any student living in the geographic area serviced by the charter may enroll. Lotteries may be held if applications exceed the school’s capacity by class, grade level or building capacity.
• Governance:
  • Magnet schools are subject to the same laws, rules and regulations as other public schools in the district and have the same funding.
  • While charter schools must adhere to the same major laws and regulations as all other public schools, they are freed from some of the red tape that can divert a school’s energy and resources away from educational excellence. As public schools, charter schools are tuition-free. They are funded according to enrollment levels and receive public funds on a per pupil basis. Charter schools also have private boards which are able to raise additional funding for them.

There are a distinct amount of differences between charter and magnet schools and the Charter CFO team believes that charter schools are the future of the American education system. We have the proven experience and passion to help make your students and school a success. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.