They come from the dreams of parents to set up a school that can address problems they may have with their own children. They begin with a group of teachers tired of the old ways of doing things and who want to be able to go at their own speed and do what they envision as best for kids. They start with risk-takers who have a vision for children and set high standards for achievement. In the process, they become school families free of numerous state and local regulations that slow progress. They become schools that believe they can reach all kids.
Charter schools are public schools that operate free of much bureaucracy and red tape.
However, they are also schools that promise to meet the goal of increased student achievement. These schools must deliver on that promise or lose their charter. Parents and students choose these schools as alternatives to the status quo. Teachers choose these schools because the non-traditional atmosphere allows freedom from the many rules and regulations that teachers see as making schools unresponsive to needs. Small numbers of students, attention from many adults, and the will to make it possible for all students to succeed is what keeps charter schools going.