There is a considerable amount of anecdotal information, largely about successful charter schools. In the past several years, a few studies have been undertaken. This report refers to several studies, and suggests some questions the Task Force might consider under the topic of charter schools. In 1999, they published a third year report that examined a number of features of charter schools nationwide. This report finds generally positive results regarding charter schools, and suggests that they are making a strong contribution in the area of accountability.
Most charter schools are newly-created, small schools.
Nationwide, students in charter schools have similar demographic characteristics to students in public schools. However, charter schools in some states serve significantly higher percentages of minority or economically disadvantaged students. Most charter schools aim to realize an alternative vision of schooling. Practically all charter schools have had to overcome obstacles during their development. Charter schools, particularly newly-created ones, have considerable autonomy.