New to Charter Schools?
Understanding charter schools
Charter schools are public schools — here's what makes Salem Academy the same, and different.
What is a charter school
A public school with more flexibility
Charter schools are tuition-free public schools, open to all students. They operate independently from the traditional district system, giving them more flexibility over curriculum, schedule, and teaching approach — while remaining accountable to the state for student outcomes.
How it compares
Charter vs. district school
Salem Academy (charter)
- Free, public, and open to all students
- Smaller class sizes
- Independent curriculum design
- Admission by lottery when oversubscribed
Traditional district school
- Free, public, and open to all students
- Class sizes set by district
- Curriculum set by district guidelines
- Admission based on residency zone
Common misconceptions
Clearing things up
Myth
"Charter schools charge tuition."
Charter schools are public schools funded by the state — there is no tuition to attend.
Myth
"You need special test scores to get in."
Salem Academy does not require entrance exams. Admission is based on a random public lottery.
Myth
"Charter schools aren't accountable to the state."
Charter schools follow the same state academic standards and reporting requirements as district schools.