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Charter school

A publicly funded, tuition-free school that operates independently of the local district under a charter granted by an authorizer, with more freedom in exchange for accountability. Similar in idea to an English academy or free school.

Used in
United States
Topic
Types of school

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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Academy England
A state-funded school in England that is independent of the local authority and funded directly by central government through a funding agreement. Academies have more freedom over curriculum, staff pay and term dates than maintained schools.
Authorizer United States
The body (such as a state board, district or university) that approves a charter school's charter and holds it accountable.
Public school (US) United States
A school funded by taxes and run by a public school district, free to attend. The UK equivalent is a state school.

More terms: Types of school

Boarding school · Early college high school · Magnet school · Montessori school · Parochial school · Private school

More terms starting with C · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.