The Charter Idea
Charter schools began with the compelling purpose of transforming public education. A firm belief that withdrawing the exclusive franchise of school districts and establishing independent schools of choice would lead to results for kids.
Minnesota passed the first public school choice chartering law in 1991, effectively creating a new sector in public education. This landmark legislation blazed a trail for others to follow including 44 states, D.C., and the territories of Guam and Puerto Rico.
While chartering celebrates 30 years of impact across nation, the idea that excellence knows no boundaries often is one that must be defended. Reporters, policymakers, and researchers continue to define the charter sector through ideology and misconceptions rather than through history and fact.
Those who stand in support of chartering must absorb the past as we propel toward the future. We must honor those pioneers who bravely took those first steps while preserving their hard-won lessons. We must continue to record our vibrant history as the evolving mission of inspiring excellence in education continues.
7,500+
Charter Schools in the USA, D.C., and the territories of Guam and Puerto Rico
3.3 Million+
Charter Students in the USA, D.C., and the territories of Guam and Puerto Rico
6%
of Total Public School Enrollment
In 44
States, including, D.C., and the territories of Guam and Puerto Rico
What Is a Charter School?
Charter schools are public schools that operate with more flexibility than traditional district schools in exchange for greater accountability. They are free, open to all students, and funded by taxpayers—but they’re governed by independent contracts, or "charters," that outline the school’s mission, performance goals, and operational structure.
Each charter school is typically run by a nonprofit organization or a group of educators and community members. These schools have the freedom to design their own curriculum, hire teachers aligned to their vision, and create a learning environment that meets the unique needs of their students.
What makes charter schools unique is the balance of autonomy and accountability:
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Autonomy allows them to innovate with teaching methods, academic programs, and school culture.
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Accountability means they must meet the academic and operational goals outlined in their charter or risk being closed.
Since the first charter law passed in 1991, the movement has grown across the country. Today, charter schools serve millions of students in urban, rural, and suburban communities—offering families more public school options and helping shape the future of education.
Give
Chip in with a gift of $30 or more to celebrate 30 years of charter schools to advance the library's work for the movement.
Gather
Preserve founding stories by contributing photos, materials, and recorded interviews of founders to the library.
Share
Spread the word! Share the charter schools story to inspire others to achieve more for kids.
