Charter School Regulations & Accountability

Do charter schools have the same accountability?

Unlike traditional Independent School Districts (ISDs), public charter schools don’t receive local funding from property taxes. Charter schools only receive funding from the state budget. Therefore, public charter schools cost taxpayers fewer tax dollars on average than traditional ISDs.

Learn more about:
Public charter school funding in Texas

How does Texas pay for charter schools?

Unlike traditional Independent School Districts (ISDs), public charter schools don’t receive local funding from property taxes. Charter schools only receive funding from the state budget. Therefore, public charter schools cost taxpayers fewer tax dollars on average than traditional ISDs.

Learn more about:
Public charter school funding in Texas.

How long does it take to start a charter school?

It takes an average of 18 months to open a new Texas public charter school. After seeking community input, schools must be approved by outside, independent expert reviewers and then thoroughly vetted by the Texas Education Agency to ensure they are ready to meet the highest standards.

Learn more about:
The Process for Opening Charter Schools in Texas

How quickly can a charter school expand?

Just like opening a new public charter school, expanding an existing Texas public charter can take up to a year and a half. The process includes sending notification of intent to expand to school board trustees and state legislators representing the geographic boundary of the charter at least six months in advance, as well as a 60-day review period.

What happens if a charter school doesn't perform well?

Texas public charter schools can have their charters (state approvals to operate) revoked for underperformance. Though rare, public charters that are not meeting the needs of their students can be closed for not meeting state requirements.

In Texas, public charter schools are subject to a “three strikes” law. They must shut their doors if they receive unacceptable ratings from the state for three years—no appeals allowed. This is among the strictest laws in the country and a far higher standard than traditional public schools face.

Learn more about:
Accountability for Public Charter Schools vs. ISDs
Public Charter School Governing Boards

Why do charter schools have to pay taxes on leased buildings?

Texas public charter schools receive dramatically less funding for facilities than Independent School Districts (ISDs). Many charter schools therefore lease buildings and are required by law to pay taxes on those buildings, even when they are only used for educational activities. This forces Texas public charters to spend an estimated $12 million state-allocated funds on taxes—instead of their students.

512-584-8272 | 3005 S Lamar Blvd, Suite D-447, Austin, TX, 78704