Deciding which school is best for your child can be an overwhelming task. Fortunately, Tennessee offers a variety of school-choice options, but getting from the start line to the finish can be confusing. To help combat the confusion, below are some helpful insights into the charter school selection and application process.
What is a charter school?
A charter school is a public school that has more freedom with curriculum in exchange for higher accountability than traditional public schools. This curriculum freedom can take shape in a variety of ways including an emphasis on language immersion, advanced literary studies, etc. Charter schools in Tennessee are held accountable by the Local Education Agency (LEA), the Tennessee Public Charter School Commission, and the Tennessee Department of Education to ensure that students are getting a quality education
Each charter school has a limited number of seats, but there is no requirement for admission. The application process usually takes place early in the spring semester and wraps up around March for the upcoming school year. If a charter has more applicants than seats, a lottery is drawn so that each student is ensured a fair opportunity to attend the school. Those who were not drawn in the lottery are placed on a waiting list in case seats become available.
How do I find the best charter school for my child?
The best way to determine which school is best for your child is to explore the websites, social media, and online reviews of schools in your area. There are also national resources available online that may help you. It’s important to know what the academic focus of each school is, what extracurriculars they offer, how far it is from your residence, if transportation is offered through the school, and what resources are offered for the specific needs of your child.
This information should be available on the school’s website. But, for extra insight, most schools provide tours and contact information for any remaining questions you may have.
What is the application process like?
The application deadline varies for each school district, but applications are typically available in January and close in February, with decisions and lottery drawings happening in March for the following school year. Filling out an application does not mean that the charter school has requirements to attend. Applications are used to keep track of who wishes to attend. Be sure to check the website of your desired charter school to find specific deadlines.
Can I apply to more than one charter school?
Yes! After the lottery process happens, you will need to choose a school. Your unclaimed seats at the schools you did not choose will then open to those on the waiting list.
How many charter school options are available in Tennessee?
Currently, there are 118 charter schools in Tennessee, most of them in urban areas, and nearly 44,000 students attend those schools. Nashville is home to 29 charter schools, Memphis is home to 51, Chattanooga holds four and Knoxville has one. Though the majority of charter schools reside in Nashville and Memphis, those numbers are likely to increase across the state in the coming years.
