Public charter schools, funded by the public according to the number of students they register, are independent public schools open to all students. The "charter" that establishes a school is a contract that states the school's mission, program, goals, students served, assessment methods, and means of measuring success.

Unlike traditional public schools, charter schools are not restricted to ward boundary assignments.  Parents and students may actively select any charter school in the District. Charter schools are publicly funded and may not charge tuition to District residents.  Charters are free from some regulations, but they may not discriminate in their admissions requirements.

Charter schools exercise increased control in return for accountability for academic results and fiscal practices.  In the District of Columbia, two boards grant charters and oversee public charter schools: the DC Board of Education and the DC Public Charter School Board. 

The Friends of Choice in Urban Schools' website provides more information about the DC charter school movement.

Visit DC School Search  to learn more about individual charter schools in the District.