Charter Schools
What is it?
Charter schools are independent public schools created on the basis of an agreement or "charter" between the school organizers and the community. Students and parents choose to attend charter schools. All courses offered in charter schools are aligned to the South Carolina academic standards.
What is different?
Students apply to attend a charter school and will be required to participate in an enrollment lottery should applications exceed capacity. The charter school has the freedom to innovate in return for accountability. Both curriculum and instructional delivery may be different from traditional schools and should be reviewed prior to enrollment to ensure a good match for the student.What are the possible benefits?
- Increased academic achievement
- Increased opportunities for parent participation
- Small school size
- Improved student attendance
- Small class sizes
- Overall positive experience in school
Who else is doing it?
There are currently 37 charter schools operating in 16 districts in South Carolina. Five virtual charter schools are currently operating in South Carolina. Eight new charter schools anticipate opening in August 2010.When did it become state or national law?
Charter school law was established in South Carolina in 1996, and the first charter school started in 1999. Competitive federal charter school grant funds support start-up groups during initial planning and the first two years of operation.Where can I access additional information?
SCDE Additional Charter School InformationSouth Carolina Charter School Act
South Carolina Public Charter School District
South Carolina Charter School Roster
United States Department Of Education Charter School Program
Charter School Photo Gallery
Creating a Charter School podcast
Search for Choice Programs in South Carolina
Who can answer my questions about this Public School Choice Structure?
Dr. Julie Anna Hartwell, Education AssociateSouth Carolina Department of Education
803-734-8368
jhartwel@ed.sc.gov
