What is a Charter Public School?
California Charter Schools are Free, Public, and Open to All
California's charter schools are tuition-free, public, and open to all students. California charter public schools have rigorous curriculum programs and unique educational approaches. In exchange for operational freedom and flexibility, charter schools are subject to higher levels of accountability than traditional public schools. Charter schools offer high-quality education options to communities, especially with historically underserved students.
Over 30 Years of High-Quality Education in California
Many California charter school students made significantly greater progress in reading and math over the school year. One study showed Black students and Latino students gained a month or more of additional learning in reading and math at charter public schools over their peers in traditional public schools per year. See Report >>
High-quality elementary schools help students build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success. Explore California’s top charter public elementary schools, recognized by the California Department of Education’s Distinguished Schools program and ranked by U.S. News & World Report and Niche.
Successful middle schools help students build a strong foundation for high school and beyond. Explore California’s top charter middle schools, recognized by the California Department of Education’s Distinguished Schools program and ranked by U.S. News & World Report and Niche.
Excellent high schools help students pursue their passions and prepare for college, career, and beyond. Discover California’s top charter public high schools, recognized by the California Department of Education’s Distinguished Schools program and ranked by U.S. News & World Report and Niche.
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What Are Community Schools?
Across California, charter public schools are showing what’s possible when strong academics are paired with comprehensive support for students and families. Community Schools In Action highlights real-world examples of schools delivering results through innovative, whole-child approaches.