In some ways, charter schools are traditional and tap historic rural roots of public education. But there is potential for controversy, especially in poor rural communities with limited financial and educational resources to support additional schools. Most schools were in the South and West. It is unclear how many were in rural areas. Differences in state laws bring wide diversity in the organization, operation, and philosophies of charter schools.
Some states give charter schools considerable autonomy, while other states exercise more control.
The ongoing studies will not deal with academic achievement for at least another year, but they have already provided valuable information. Applicants in Arizona seeking to establish a charter school submit a written proposal to a sponsor, which may be either a school district governing board, the state board of education, or the state board for charter schools. In Colorado, parents, teachers, and community members may develop a charter school application. The group must negotiate with the local school board on autonomy. Third, parents and students tend to choose charter schools because of dissatisfaction with public schools.