Arizona Charter Schools Vs. Public Schools: 3 Differences

Charter schools have become an increasingly popular option for education as a tuition-free public institution. In fact, 8 out of the 10 top-ranked high schools in Arizona were all charter schools. If you’re debating whether an Arizona charter school vs. traditional public school would be best for your child, take a look at our comparisons of benefits and drawbacks below. 

Comparing Charter and Public Schools in Arizona

1. Results 

In the state of Arizona, charter schools have yielded higher AzMerit passing rates and outperformed their public school peers in subjects like math and reading. For example, Arizona ranked 25th for eighth-grade math and 35th for eighth-grade reading.

Arizona charter schools, when compared to NAEP results of other states, ranked 1st and 2nd in those subjects respectively. When compared to public schools in low-income areas, charter schools can yield better test scores and results. 

2. Curriculum 

Overall, the state board of education holds charter schools accountable for some regulated standards. Nevertheless, they generally have much more flexibility in their curriculum. Charter schools have the option to focus more on certain subjects. Often, we see that theirs a greater focus on STEM education or arts-focused curriculum. Charter schools have the ability to offer different courses and curriculum provided that they still meet state requirements and testing. 

In contrast, public schools must adhere to state school board requirements and laws, and the curriculum is dictated by the state education board. All coursework is then implemented by the district and school for compliance purposes.

If your child desires a more flexible or subject-specific courseload than what a public school provides, you should consider charters schools as a free alternative within the public school system. 

3. Enrollment 

Enrollment options will vary slightly between charter and public schools. Both offer tuition-free schooling without an entrance exam and are a state-funded. However, the school district does not limit charter school attendance and any child can attend provided they have transportation. If there is a high amount of applications, enrollment can be more difficult at charter schools because of their lottery system for acceptance. Additionally, charter schools have the option to not admit students that have been previously expelled or disciplined at past schools. 

On the other hand, school districts regulate student enrollment. Nevertheless, they provide benefits like bus transportation. Enrollment is typically more open at traditional public schools and is more tolerant of students with previous disciplinary action. Depending on what is best for your child, carefully weigh the enrollment options of Arizona charter schools vs. public schools before making an enrollment decision. 

Decide What’s Best for Your Child’s Needs Before Enrolling

These are only a few key differences in Arizona charter schools vs. public schools. Each school plays a significant role in education. However, depending on your child’s academic needs, one may win over the other.

If you’re looking for an A-rated, high-performance charter school, schedule a tour with Academies of Math & Science Charter. AMS Charter has multiple locations across the state and is dedicated to providing the best affordable education for your child.