Frequently Asked Questions

A charter school is an independently run public school. Charter schools are granted greater flexibility in their operations. However, in return for this flexibility charter schools are must perform at a higher level of standard for test scores and graduation rates. If student performance falls below the standards set in the charter, the school may be closed by the New York State Department of Education – Charter School Division. In New York State, charter schools must have their charters renewed every five years.

Because they are independent of the district system, charter schools have greater flexibility in the way they operate. Charter schools are free to develop their own academic program, choose staff, set educational goals, offer a longer school day and school year, and establish their own standards for student behavior. Charter schools are required to raise student achievement. If they do not meet their performance goals they can be closed.

Charter schools provide an alternative to traditional district schools. Charter schools allow parents the opportunity to choose a school based upon what they think will work best for their child. Many charter schools also tend to:

• Emphasize not only the core subjects of English and math, but also the arts, science, and languages;

• Have longer school days and year;

• Be smaller overall, providing a more personal atmosphere.

No. Charter schools are tuition-free, like all public schools. All students, regardless of background, are eligible to submit an application for the lottery. The only cost associated with our school is the uniform.

Yes. If the student is an English Language Learner and requires ELL support.

Yes. We accommodate all children and their individual learning needs.

Each class has approximately 20-25 students. Smaller class size enables more one-on-one time between the teacher and students.