5 Common Misconceptions about Public Charter Schools

Most are familiar with traditional Public Schools as they have, over time, been recognized as the most common route for ensuring that Students receive a proper education. And, as Public Charter Schools have become more visible across the educational landscape, misconceptions about them have also become more visible as they are usually compared to and misinterpreted alongside traditional Public Schools. Unfortunately, misconceptions about Public Charter Schools can cloud the conversation, leading to misunderstandings about their purpose and impact.

Here at Iowa Choice Charter School, it is our hope that this Blog Post will provide clarity and reduce confusion surrounding all Public Charter Schools. And, we hope that by shedding light on five common misconceptions about Public Charter Schools while sharing why they should, in fact, be labeled as misconceptions, we can positively contribute to the conversation. 

Misconception 1: Public Charter Schools are really Private Schools (in disguise)

One prevalent misconception about Public Charter Schools is that they operate similarly to Private Schools, with exclusive admissions and hefty tuition fees at the forefront. Actually, Public Charter Schools are publicly funded and open to all Students, regardless of their socioeconomic background. Public Charter Schools are designed to provide alternative educational options within the Public School system. They offer diverse Curricula and implement teaching methods geared towards meeting the individual needs of ALL Students. 

Iowa Choice Charter School offers free online enrollment year-round that is available to any Student who resides in Iowa and represents grades 9-12 (up to age 21). We welcome Students from all backgrounds, provide them with all of the tools and resources they may need, and arrange support through creating personalized pathways for them to earn a High School diploma. 

Misconception 2: Public Charter Schools are not held accountable

There exists a prominent belief that Public Charter Schools operate with less oversight. This leads to concerns about the quality of education they provide. Contrary to this belief, all Public Charter Schools, including Iowa Choice Charter School, are most definitely held accountable by governing agencies. For instance, adhering to state academic standards, participating in standardized testing, and facing consequences for underperformance are all apart of maintaining a distinction as a Public Charter School. Additionally, Public Charter Schools often have to submit more materials than traditional Public Schools so that their compliance with established guidelines can be monitored closely and consistently. 

Misconception 3: Public Charter Schools only serve high-achieving Students 

Public Charter Schools are designed to be inclusive and equitable! But, there is still a misconception that they are designed for Students who have been identified as “gifted” or high-performing. If this were true, Students with diverse learning needs would, unfortunately, be left behind. The truth is, however, that Public Charter Schools go above and beyond to address each Student’s educational capabilities on an individual basis. 

Many Public Charter Schools utilize specific academic approaches or themes as a way to create space for Students to thrive in an environment that is better suited to match their learning styles. At Iowa Choice Charter School, we serve Students with a variety of demands alongside those who show differentiation across their abilities. We champion ALL Students by fully personalizing their educational experience. 

Misconception 4: Charter Schools drain resources from traditional Public Schools

The misconception that Public Charter Schools take funds away from traditional Public Schools can be particularly harmful because those that understand this to be the case simultaneously carry the understanding that traditional Public Schools will decline because of this. It is the case that Public Charter Schools are publicly funded, but they do not divert resources away from traditional Public Schools.

As it is typically based on enrollment, the funding of Public Charter Schools is dependent upon each Student that registers and attends. This means that Public Charter Schools receive a certain amount of funds per Student which is the same process used among traditional Public Schools and is the same process in effect for Iowa Choice Charter School. 

Misconception 5: Public Charter Schools have Admissions processes that are selective 

Similar to a traditional Public School, Iowa Choice Charter School admits Students using criteria based on state residency and grade level. While some may think that Public Charter Schools pick and choose the Students that can attend their educational institution, in reality, Public Charter Schools cannot discriminate against any Student for any reason. And, they are required to accept Students using systems that are fair, accessible, and ensure equal opportunity for all applicants.

Public Charter Schools play a vital role in diversifying educational options and addressing the unique needs of Students across the board. It is essential to recognize the innovation and flexibility that the presence of Public Charter Schools brings. Not only can they enrich opportunities for Student learning and stimulate improvement among all schools, but they can also benefit the educational system as a whole.

Although there seems to be an underlying perception that Public Charter Schools are in competition with traditional Public Schools, at Iowa Choice Charter School, we readily take on the task of dispelling this idea. And, we stand strong in the belief of collaboration over competition! We do this by working alongside local School Districts and other traditional Public Schools to provide an alternative educational path for Students who hope to have more success as they move forward on their educational journey. We also believe that when Students have the chance to learn in a space specifically tailored to them, they can achieve greater. Giving Students this chance fuels us each and every day!