What are charter schools?
Charter schools are independent public schools founded by not-for-profit Boards of Trustees. They operate under a contract (or "charter") of up to five years. Charter schools are New York City public schools and they are open to all New York City students. Many charter schools have unique educational approaches that may include longer school days, a longer school year, or themed programs.
Are charter schools New York City public schools?
As charter schools are public schools, charter schools arepart of the New York City Department of Education's strategy for providing families with an increased number of high-quality school options. Charter schools have a range of academic and staffing models, mission, goals, and policies. Individual charter schools provide information about schedules, grading, discipline, promotion criteria, open house dates, and the names of staff and Board of Trustees members.
When did this happen?
Charter schools became part of NY State's public education offerings with the passing of theNY State Charter Schools Act of 1998. Charter schools in New York are authorized by three groups:
- New York City Department of Education (DOE)
- New York State Department of Education (NYSED)
- The State University of New York Charter Schools Institute (SUNY)
How do we enroll in a charter school?
Visit the How to Enroll in Charter Schools to learn more.
