Miami Children’s Museum Charter School Frequently Asked Questions
What is a charter school?
Charter schools are public schools that operate under a performance contract, or a “charter”, which frees them from most rules and regulations created for traditional public schools. As part of the contract, charter schools are held strictly accountable for academic and financial results.
What is the purpose of a Charter School?
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Improve student learning. -
Increase learning opportunities for all students.
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Encourage the use of different and innovative learning methods.
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Increase choice of learning opportunity to own the learning program at the school site.
What makes charter schools effective?
Charter schools allow teachers and principals to respond immediately and accurately to specific educational needs within a community. They offer complete site-based decision-making. Charter schools provide full contractual and budgetary autonomy. In providing a choice in educational options, charter schools stimulate competition to raise the standard for all students.
How do charter schools differ from traditional public schools?
Charter schools provide freedom and flexibility from bureaucracies that operate traditional public schools. They have the independence and autonomy to make their own decisions. Financial control allows for the ability to implement and pay for the decisions made by charter school founders.
What requirements are charter schools responsible for meeting?
Charter schools must participate in the state assessment system. They must meet state graduation requirements. They must achieve locally negotiated student performance goals. They must meet any other specified requirements particular to state in which the charter is granted.
How are students selected for a charter school?
A charter school shall be open to any student residing in the school district in which the charter school is located. A charter school will accept applications during their open enrollment period. If the number of eligible students exceeds the capacity of the program, grade level, or building capacity, a random selection of students will be conducted.
Are charter schools required to employ certified teachers?
Yes. Statutory provisions require teachers employed by or under contract with a charter school to be certified as required by current law.