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General Information

  • What is a Charter School?

    A charter school is a type of public school. Charter schools provide education through a "charter," which is a type of contract granted by a chartering entity such as the commissioner of education, State Board of Education (SBOE), or the board of trustees of an independent school district. 

    Charter Home - Purpose and Definition

    In 1995, the Texas Education Code established a new type of public school, known as a charter school. Charter schools are subject to fewer state laws than other public schools with the idea of ensuring fiscal and academic accountability without undue regulation of instructional methods or pedagogical innovation. Like school districts, charter schools are monitored and accredited by the state. 

    According to the Texas Education Code, the purposes of charter schools are to:

    • improve student learning;
    • increase the choice of learning opportunities within the public school system;
    • create professional opportunities that will attract new teachers to the public school system;
    • establish a new form of accountability for public schools; and
    • encourage different and innovative learning methods. 

    Texas Education Code, Chapter 12

    Charter school administrators should become familiar with the laws that apply to charter schools.  Chapter 12 of the TEC (outside source) discusses many, but not all, charter school issues.  Subchapter D of Chapter 12 is specific to open-enrollment charter schools; Subchapter E of Chapter 12 is specific to university charter schools.

    Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 100

    The TAC contains rules adopted by the State Board of Education (SBOE) and the commissioner of education.  The SBOE and the commissioner of education may adopt new rules or amendments to existing rules.  Title 19 TAC, Chapter 100 is the primary source of rules that apply to open-enrollment charter schools. 

Region 11 Charter Schools Professional Development Needs?

  • Charter Schools - You have a voice at ESC Region 11!

    Help us shape your charter school needs by completing the survey below that will provide us with valuable input about your charter school needs!

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