Charter schools are public schools that come in all flavors and sizes. Some charters are facility based, others are online schools, and some are a hybrid of both—offering part time facility learning mixed with a home learning environment.
It is becoming increasingly common for charter schools and homeschoolers to work with each other as more students choose this option. And while homeschooling and charter schools aren't necessarily everyone's choice, this combination can be a great solution for some. In certain instances having support and partnership by an educational institution which shares a family’s vision of quality education can be helpful for a family to take the leap into homeschooling.
But like most school choice law, what is legal in one state is unlawful in another.
In California for example, a home schooling family must either:
a. Be part of a public homeschooling program through a charter school or independent study, or
b. Use a credentialed teacher, or
c. Enroll their children in a private school (private schools can be formed by the parents in their own home).
Several states permit charter schools to be virtual schools. Online home education can be a viable option for kids who learn well in this type of environment and families who desire certain curriculum and support from off-site staff.
States like Colorado offer equal access to public schools for homeschoolers. This opens up a world of venues for a charter school to support home based families. Colorado charter schools may offer virtual programs, part-time facility based lessons and other support. Some Colorado home learners attend a charter school for a few lessons per week to take specialized courses like foreign language, advanced mathematics, or music. These courses are without tuition charges as charter schools are public schools.
Unfortunately there are still states that do not allow charter schools, virtual schools, or for charter schools to offer home based learning.
If you live in one of these states, there is much work to be done and you—the parent—are a key player in standing up for kid’s rights to fair and equal access to quality education.
Contact your state education department, state charter school organization, and/or elected leaders and ask how to get involved.
Do you want more information about school choice advocacy? Don't miss the coming series on redefining parental involvement in education.
For more info:
Homeschooling and Charter Schools
Info 101: Are charter schools public schools?
Info 101: What is a charter school?
Info 101: Comprehensive national directory of charter schools
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Karin Piper is the author and speaker of Charter Schools: The Ultimate Handbook for Parents (Wyatt-MacKenzie Publishing 2009), which boasts more than 30 chapters of must-know information and a complete school research guide for parents seeking charter schools.
At the Examiner we always appreciate learning about updated information and current events.
To ask Karin about upcoming events or book her for a speaking engagement, please contact her directly Karin@TheEducationChoiceExpert.com, or visit the website www.TheEducationChoiceExpert.com.
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Thanks for this information. We currently use a charter for our daughter educational needs. This is a great article to give to friends and family members who still are a wee bit confused about what a charter school really is.
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