In Your State

Why Charter Schools are Different

Charter schools are independent public schools that are free to be more innovative and are held accountable for improved student achievement. They foster a partnership between parents, teachers and students to create an environment in which parents can be more involved, teachers are given freedom to innovate and student are provided the structure they need to learn.

Learn More About Schools in Your State on the Dashboard

You'll find data, facts and information about charter schools in your state when you visit the Public Charter School Dashboard. (On the Dashboard, when you click on a state, you'll see information on the organizations that support charter schools in that state.)

Find a School in Your State and Get the latest news

Click on a state below to locate schools near you and read our "Stories From the Field" 

Compare State Policies

Visit this comprehensive database sponsored by the Education Commission of the States and the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools to compare state policies.

So far in 2009, charter advocates have won more battles than they've lost, a notable accomplishment given the tough state policy environment facing us. Click here to download a state-by-state summary of legislative battles charters have won, lost, and those that are still undecided. Alliance policy staff have also provided detailed wrap‐ups for each state.