Download our e-book, Parents’ Guide to Charter Schools
A charter school is a free public school that operates independently from local district schools, under a “charter” or agreement with the State Board of Education. Charter schools receive public funds for each student served, but do not receive the capital funds that support local district schools. This gap means charter schools receive about $.75 for every $1.00 that goes to other public schools.
Charter schools are open to any student who lives in North Carolina. There is not a selective admission process, but preference is given to siblings. Once a student is enrolled at the charter school, they will have a spot for all following years.
As a charter school, we have more freedom to innovate than local district schools. We determine our staffing model, hire and support our faculty, design curriculum, and manage our budget. In exchange for this autonomy, we are held accountable for student achievement, operations, and financial management. We welcome this accountability and believe charter schools should be held to high standards in exchange for receiving public funds.
The Franklin School of Innovation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization led by a volunteer Board of Directors.