What is a Charter School?
A public school with a guiding focus or mission that is available to all students domiciled in NC.
- Tuition Free, State Supported and State Accountable
- Has an enrollment limitations - When applicants exceed seats available, they enter through a lottery.
- Applicants will be placed on a waiting list in order their number was drawn at the time of the lottery. The list will be available on our website. Once openings occur you will be notified in the order you are on the waiting list.
- Enrollment is not restricted to Forsyth County. Students can be from any county in North Carolina.
- A school of choice. If you decide that the charter school is not a good fit for your family, you may return to your local LEA.
- Are not governed by the local school board. For-profit companies may manage them, and there is no requirement that board members reside in North Carolina.
What is the difference between charter schools and other public schools?
Charter schools are public schools of choice, meaning that families choose them for their children. They operate with freedom from some of the regulations that are imposed upon district schools. Charter schools are accountable for academic results and for upholding the promises made in their charters. They must demonstrate performance in the areas of academic achievement, financial management, and organizational stability. If a charter school does not meet performance goals, it may be closed.
How are charter schools funded?
As public schools, charter schools are tuition-free. They are funded according to enrollment levels and receive public funds on a per pupil basis. In North Carolina, charter schools only receive about 73% of the funds allocated versus the 100% received by local public institutions for school operations. In most states, charters do not receive capital funds to support facility expenses nor do they receive any funds for the State Lottery system.
How are charter schools funded?
As public schools, charter schools are tuition-free. They are funded according to enrollment levels and receive public funds on a per pupil basis. In North Carolina, charter schools only receive about 73% of the funds allocated versus the 100% received by local public institutions for school operations. In most states, charters do not receive capital funds to support facility expenses nor do they receive any funds for the State Lottery system.