Posted by Steven Levin on September 29, 2015 at 4:25 PM

The public has never been more supportive of California's charter public schools based on growth in charter school enrollment, waiting list numbers, and polling data. Yet while charter schools enjoy strong support, there are vocal critics who perpetuate a number of myths. Our sister organization, CCSA, is proud to introduce the Truth About Charters, a campaign that seeks to clarify common misperceptions by providing responses based on fact and independent research. 

Truth #1: Charter schools are public schools.

Charter schools are tuition free, public schools of choice open to any student. Choice is a powerful tool for parents seeking educational equity and equal access to quality education for their children.

Truth #2: Charter schools serve all students.

Like California's population, charter school students are incredibly diverse. Charter public schools have shown that students of all backgrounds can excel when given the opportunity.

Truth #3: Charter schools serve English Language Learners.

A new report by the California Charter Schools Association (CCSA) finds that charter public schools are helping English Language ("EL") students do better in school.

Truth #4: Charter schools are exceeding academically.

Charter schools are delivering on the promise of a great public education, especially in under-served communities. Research shows that charter school students are learning more each year, and graduating ready for college at higher rates.

Truth #5: Thousands of parents are waiting for more charter schools.

More and more families are demanding the charter school option as they learn that charter school students are doing better in school. Yet there is still an overwhelming unmet need for quality school options as over 158,000 students are on charter school waiting lists in California.

Learn more about sharing the Truth About Charters (sign-in required)

Additional resources are available on CCSA's Truth About Charters page.