When deciding whether or not you should enroll your child in a charter school, the biggest concern should be whether or not the school is a good fit for your child academically.

Charter schools have attracted students for more than a decade, offering a different way of learning that welcomes students of all ages. Located in urban, suburban, and rural areas around the country, charter schools have become alternatives to public education.

If you find yourself wondering, “Should I switch my child to a charter school?” consider the following:

1. What is a Charter School?

Charter schools are public schools that operate under a performance contract with a district, county office of education, or state. They have more autonomy in exchange for greater accountability for improving student achievement. The state and local school districts primarily fund charter schools. Other features include:

• Charter schools can be tuition-free, or they can charge tuition.
• Charter schools may revolve around a particular discipline (e.g., arts, science, and technology) or philosophy (e.g., Montessori).
• Charter schools have the freedom to create their curriculum and to hire teachers without formal certification.
• The admission follows a lottery system if there are more applicants than spaces available at the school.
• Charter schools do not discriminate based on race, gender, disability status, or academic performance.

2. What Types of Charter Schools are Available?

Charter schools are diverse in their educational approach and focus, and some have a different philosophy of education than public schools. Other charters focus on STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, and math), the arts, college prep, special education, etc.

3. Is Your Child Ready for a More Challenging Environment?

Suppose you’re at the point where you’re wondering if a charter school is a suitable choice for your child. It’s likely because you can see that they have a lot of potential, and you want to ensure that potential shines.

In general, charter schools provide more challenging academic environments for students ready to tackle them. They often emphasize changing curriculum in schools in core subjects like math, reading, and science at an accelerated level. In addition, they may offer a more extended school day or year than traditional public schools.

When your child seems bored at school, it’s cause for concern. Boredom is a sign that your child lacks challenge, harming their education and self-confidence.  Charter schools offer a unique opportunity to challenge bright students who might get bored in traditional classrooms.

Charter schools are often able to offer more flexibility than traditional schools. For example, they might provide gifted-and-talented programs that provide extra challenges for bright students. They might also offer more AP courses and allow students to take classes at local universities for dual credit.

Charter schools are also more flexible in curriculum content and teaching styles, allowing them to customize learning experiences for individual students efficiently.

Conclusion

The best schools provide a positive and enriching environment by helping children grow, develop, and become the best versions of themselves.

The Vanguard School is a K-12, free public charter school serving students from all over the Pikes Peak region.

Founded in 1995 by several parents interested in a more rigorous academic curriculum and character education, Vanguard provides excellence in education in a safe, structured environment by adhering to its mission statement:

The mission of The Vanguard School is to help guide students in development of their character and academic potential through academically rigorous, content-rich education programs.

To learn more about The Vanguard School, call us at (719) 471-1999, email us at [email protected], and/or watch our Virtual Tour playlist.