The first charter school law, passed 25 years ago this month, was meant to give parents and teachers new power to create unique public-school opportunities for children.
Now, about 2.5 million students, or 5 percent of the public school population, are enrolled in charter schools throughout the country.
Reporter Arianna Prothero explores how charter schools have changed over a quarter century in a special report in Education Week, “Charter Schools at 25.” Charter schools have given parents new choices for their children, even as the movement has been propelled by foundations and advocacy groups.
Check out the series that looks at the evolution of charters and diversity issues in the schools. Also, see a video comparing two charter schools in Minnesota and California.