What Is a Public Charter School?

Charter schools are free, independently-operated public schools open to all District of Columbia residents, regardless of their neighborhood, socioeconomic status, previous academic achievement, or ethnicity. There are no admission tests or tuition fees. Parents and students choose a particular charter school because of its unique focus, curriculum, structure, size, environment and other features. Enrollment is on a space-available basis. When a charter school has reached its maximum enrollment, a lottery and waiting list system is used. Public Charter Schools receive public funds based on the number of students they enroll, as do all District of Columbia public schools.