What Are Charter Schools, and How Are They Different?
When deciding to enroll your child in a charter school or public school, it is important for parents to understand the key differences. These distinctions can not only impact the quality of education your children receive but also their futures. Dive deeper into the differences between charter schools and public schools with Oregon Charter Academy.
Understanding Charter Schools
Independently operated and tuition-free, charter schools are unique learning institutions because they can design classrooms and learning programs to meet the needs of their students. Parents tend to love charter schools because of the strong and dedicated teachers, their focus on preparing students for success, and the other advantages their child will receive, such as:
Smaller class sizes: With a smaller class size on average than most public schools, your child will be able to receive more one-on-one time with the teacher. Also, smaller class sizes can be very beneficial to students who may be shy and afraid to ask for help.
Progressive teaching: Looking for ways to further the education of your child, charter schools welcome cutting-edge technology and other means to improve how students learn. Our staff of dedicated learning professionals has tailored a curriculum specific to the advancement of your child’s education.
Offering more than traditional public schools: Even with all the added benefits and advantages, charter schools remain tuition-free learning institutions. Your child can receive an enhanced form of education – all at no cost to you.
Charter School vs. Public School: Key Differences
When it comes to their child’s education, parents deserve to know every detail to ensure their child isn’t getting left behind. When deciding whether charter school or public school is the right option for your child, knowing the differences can help you with your decision. Here are several distinct differences separating the two:
Enrollment
Both public schools and charter schools offer public enrollment based on location, however, charter schools usually have a capped enrollment whereas public schools don’t. The result of this is public schools often become crowded and lack enough resources to properly educate their students.
Regulations
Charter schools and public schools are both highly regulated. The difference is the regulatory groups they answer to. Public schools are required to get approval from district school boards and local education agencies. While charter schools still abide by just-as-tight regulations, they have the luxury of not having to navigate through massive school districts, allowing more efficient decision-making.
Curriculum
Regardless of whether it’s a charter school or a public school, a school’s performance is based on its curriculum. In terms of learning programs, charter schools generally have been ahead of public schools when it comes to adopting cutting-edge programs and progressive education. A student who attends charter schools will be exposed to a new and proven form of learning much sooner than students who attend public school.
Flexibility
Another main difference between public schools and charter schools is how much flexibility they have in the choices they make. Generally, charter schools are a lot more flexible, allowing them to make quicker decisions about the well-being of their students. Because of this flexibility, your child may be subjected to educational advancements they wouldn’t receive at a public school.
Advance Your Child’s Education At Oregon Charter Academy
Parents in search of a progressive educational program for their children, with the goal of setting them up for success, should consider virtual learning at Oregon Charter Academy. Through our online learning program, students will be well equipped with the knowledge and skills to excel in college and their careers. To learn more about our program, the differences between charter schools and public schools, and how you can enroll your child, contact Oregon Charter Academy today.