Charter Schools - Some Relevant Facts

In December, 1998 when New York State enacted charter school legislation, it joined 35 other states that had opened 1,790 charter schools. Two years later, there are 37 charter granting states and more than 2,069 charter schools in operation. In the entire United States there are 87, 125 public schools so despite the rapid growth, (since 1991 when the first were established) charter schools are still a tiny percentage of the overall total.

·2,808,395 public school students in New York State · 485,453 non public school students in New York State · 7,057 charter school students in New York State. · Of the 25 charter schools currently established in New York State, 16 are in New York City and 7 of these are former New York City public schools.

What are charter schools?
In New York State they are nonsectarian public schools established by teachers, parents and community members under 5-year charters or contracts granted by the Board of Regents. Charter schools are independent of local school districts. They operate under the oversight of the charter entity that approved their charter.

What is a charter entity?
A charter entity reviews and approves charter applications. There are three charter entities: the Board of Regents, the Board of Trustees of SUNY (State University of New York), local school districts outside of New York City, and the Chancellor of New York City schools.

How many charter schools can there be?
The law authorizes a total of 100 charter schools statewide, not counting existing public schools that may convert to charter status. There is no limit to conversions. 50 of the charters will be approved by SUNY 50 of the charters will be approved by the other entities.

Do charter schools have to meet any requirements?
There are many requirements under the charter law. They include:

• Schools must have at least 50 students;
• Schools must meet or exceed state standards and administer the same assessments as other public schools;
• Schools must accept students on a first come first served basis and if there are more applications than places, must choose randomly.
• Schools may limit themselves to a single sex population
• Schools may limit themselves to an at-risk population but they may not limit themselves to students with disabilities.
• Schools may not discriminate on the basis of "ethnicity, national origin, gender or disability." Schools must meet the needs of students with disabilities.
• At least 70 % of teachers must be certified.

How are Charter Schools Funded?
Charter schools are funded with public money on a per pupil basis. There is no extra money granted specifically for the school building but there is a revolving fund for start-up. Charter schools may solicit private funds as well.

For a copy of the legislation or more detailed information, log on to www.nysed.gov or call 518-474-5915.

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