Charter Schools vs Public Schools

As a parent of a middle school or high school student, you may be in the process of researching schools for your child. There are many school options in Jacksonville, so how do you choose? First, you must gain a better understanding of the options available to you. In this blog, we will discuss the primary differences between Charter Schools and Public Schools to help you distinguish which option is best for your child.

Overview

A charter school is actually a public school with more autonomy. They are independent of districting, so any child can attend regardless of their home address. With this autonomy comes more stringent accountability. Like public schools, a charter school is open to all children and does not require an entrance exam. They do not charge tuition, and they are required to participate in federal accountability programs and state testing. The school is bound by their “charter” which is a set of rules and standards they must abide by.

Primary Differences between Charter Schools and Public Schools

HOW ARE THEY FUNDED?

Charter– All charter schools are funded by the government on a per-student basis. They may also receive private funds.

Public– Public schools get the bulk of their funding through local taxes, but they may also receive funding through state budgets.

HOW ARE THEY REGULATED?

Charter- All charters are independently run. Due to their autonomy, they must meet the standards they set in their “charter” in order to secure funding to operate. Charter schools are required to maintain just as rigorous, if not more rigorous, standards than public schools.

Public- Public schools must follow all state school board laws and regulations. Each elected local school board will run their district.

ARE TEACHER CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED?

Charter- Some charters do not require certification. At San Jose Academy and Preparatory High School, we require all of our teachers to be certified.

Public- All teachers must be state certified by the education board.

DOES THE CURRICULUM DIFFER?

Charter- Charter schools are flexible with the curriculum; however, they are held accountable to their performance contract.

Public- All public-school curriculum is decided upon by each state’s education board, and executed by the respective local school district.

IS THERE AN ADMISSIONS PROCESS?

Charter- Typically charters will require an application. In the event the charter has met its student cap, then a random lottery will be conducted for enrollment. Just like public schools it is free to attend a charter school.

Public- All students living within each local school district can attend that school without having to apply.

Benefits of San Jose Academy and Preparatory High School

As a charter school in Jacksonville, FL it is our mission, through the combined efforts of staff, parents, students, and community, to foster a positive work ethic, create an environment that harbors tolerance and respect for others, and provide a challenging purpose driven program.

So why choose us?

College prep school that sets high expectations for its students and staff
Rigorous academic and personal standards
Utilizes an instructional model that encourages individualized learning while providing teacher and peer support
Places emphasis on parent-teacher communication and relationships
Integrates technology into each project or lesson (each classroom is equipped with a laptop for every student and an interactive smart projector)
Promotes diversity and cultural awareness
Offers daily in-class tutoring
Offers after-school clubs (i.e. basketball, drama, track and field, robotics, and art appreciation)
Requires student involvement in community projects
Requires school uniforms
Builds community business partnerships
Encourages parent involvement through volunteering or similar activities

If you would like more information about San Jose Academy and Preparatory High School or would like to schedule a tour of our campus contact us now at (904) 425- 1725.