The feasibility of charter schools in the United States: a national study

The purpose of this investigation was to do a feasibility study of charter schools in the United States. The states of Arizona, California, Minnesota, and New Mexico were the basis of the research. Most charter schools are free from laws and regulations governing public schools. However, charter schools are accountable for results affecting student achievement. Usually, a charter school\u27s performance is reviewed three to five years after starting. If student achievement is good and results are successful, the charter school remains;Six research questions were answered as a result of the study. (1) What really prompted the charter school movement in the United States? (2) How are charter schools formed? (3) What is the satisfaction level of parents of students attending a charter school and staff versus their satisfaction level towards public schools? (4) To what degree are Iowa school superintendents knowledgeable and/or open to charter schools? (5) What are the advantages/disadvantages and strengths/weaknesses of existing charter schools of which patrons should be aware? (6) How effectively are charter schools addressing the standards areas as identified in the publication by Chalker and Haynes, World Class Schools?;Information from Iowa school superintendents was sought as Iowa is a state with no charter school legislation, and thus, no charter schools. Iowa school superintendents may be typical of many superintendents across the Midwest, and therefore, much can be learned from them regarding their perceptions of charter schools. Descriptive information is given, as well as statistical analyses. The charter school movement is a growing phenomenon that has expanded even as the research for this document was being gathered and written