These findings about student and board demographics reflect the geographic circumstances of the schools as well as community response to their missions. Generally, charter schools are not racially distinctive if they are viewed in the context of their missions and the communities in which they are located. Charter school staff characteristics differ from those of public school districts. Charter school teachers have roughly six years of experience compared with an average of 12 years of experience for public school teachers. About half have certification to teach in Texas.
Charter schools employ a higher proportion of minority teachers than do public schools.
Reasons for start up. Sixty-six charter school directors responded to a survey from the evaluation team. They report that their reasons for founding a charter school were to realize a particular vision for a school and to gain more autonomy than they might have in a public school setting. Service to children also rated high as a reason for founding a charter school. Directors report having strong business and community support as well as parent support.