Teachers are screened thoroughly and interviewed by principals. In many cases, parents participate in the interview process. Ride sharing and carpooling have proven to be effective alternatives. The school office can assist in sharing information and organizing carpools among students. In New York, charter school students are provided access to public transportation.
Charter schools are independently-operated public schools.
There is no charge to parents because funding comes from state tax dollars. Charter schools must meet the same academic requirements as traditional public schools, but are also directly accountable to parents. Cold lunches are provided to families who choose to purchase them. Lunches are delivered to school refrigerators each morning before being served in the classroom. In the past, individual academies have set dress code or uniform policies.