Charter schools differ from magnet schools in the method of creation and level of autonomy.
In Missouri, for example, Kansas City and St. Louis must observe strict racial guidelines for the placement of students in city schools. Parents are limited to choices that will not upset the racial balance of a particular school. Some states, such as Colorado, allow inter-district choice among only a limited number of districts. Also referred to as transfers. Sometimes used as a voluntary method to achieve racial balance when districts are under court order to desegregate.