Executive Summary

The Delaware charter school reform dates back to 1995 when legislation was initially passed that allowed the creation of charter schools. Two schools opened in 1996, and 13 charter schools are currently operating in the state. They enroll more than 6,200 students, which accounts for nearly 5.4 percent of all public school students. Another charter school is slated to open in the autumn of 2005. Thus far, 2 schools have closed due to financial and other organizational difficulties. The students enrolled in the charter schools vary extensively in terms of demographics. This is largely due to the location of the schools and the schools ’ profiles and marketing strategies. In a number of instances, the demographic characteristics of the charter schools differ greatly from the surrounding communities. In some cases, the charter schools are enrolling more disadvantaged students. In other cases, they are enrolling students who are substantially less disadvantaged. Comparing Delaware’s Charter School Law With Laws in Other States Delaware’s charter school law is considered by some to be very permissive or “charter school friendly ” because of the extensive autonomy charter schools are granted. However