Even after nearly 25 years of public charter schools in Indiana, we know there’s still a lot of confusion about what they are, how they work, and who they’re for. And that’s okay.
Clearing up confusion with facts, not fights
Even after nearly 25 years of public charter schools in Indiana, we know there’s still a lot of confusion about what they are, how they work, and who they’re for. And that’s okay.
Families deserve honest, clear information, not politics or finger-pointing, when it comes to their child’s education. So let’s set the record straight.
They are tuition-free, open to all families, and held accountable by state-approved authorizers like the Indiana Department of Education or the Indianapolis Mayor’s Office. Just like district schools, charters are part of the public system and they serve students from all walks of life.
In Indiana, over 90% of charters are operated by nonprofit organizations. They can’t charge tuition, they can’t screen students out, and they don’t accept private school vouchers. When more students apply than there are seats, they use a public lottery to ensure fairness.
Every charter school is governed by its own local board, made up of community members who know the school and the families it serves. That means decision-making happens close to home, not in a faraway central office. If something’s not working, families can speak up and actually be heard.
By law, charter schools must serve all students, including those with IEPs, disabilities, or English language learning needs. Many offer small group instruction, personalized supports, and inclusive classrooms and some schools have built their entire model around supporting students who’ve struggled elsewhere.
From dual-language immersion to STEM labs, arts integration, career pathways, and project-based learning, charter schools have the flexibility to build programs that match what students need right now. That’s not about competition - it’s about customization.
Charter schools are one piece of Indiana’s public education system. They’re here to offer families options, give students opportunities, and keep more kids in public schools where they feel seen, supported, and challenged to grow.
They don’t need to be the perfect solution for every student, but they are working hard every day to serve students well. And we believe families should know the truth about what they are, and what they’re not.
.png)
.png)