Charter schools are tuition-free public schools open to any Utah student. A public school is defined as a school that is open to the public, funded by the public, and accountable to the public. Charter schools meet all three tests. Charter Schools are governed by independent boards and held accountable to a legally binding written contractual agreement with their authorizer. It is this charter agreement that allows for the operation of the charter school. They offer parents and students additional choices about where students attend school and the school's curricular emphasis. They allow educators freedom to try new strategies to inspire students and to experiment with innovative ways of educating students.
The Utah State Charter School Board (SCSB) has moved its website to another domain. This Charter Schools website provides information for all Charter Schools in Utah, regardless of the Charter Authorizer.
A charter authorizer is an entity approved by the Utah State Legislature to bring charter schools into existence. Authorizers set up application processes and approve or deny charter school applications. Most importantly, authorizers are accountable for managing and monitoring their charter schools' academic record and organizational viability, while also ensuring that they are in compliance with all applicable laws.
The following entities may authorize a charter school:
As public schools Utah Charter Schools must comply with all federal and state legislation and federal regulations. Charter Schools are also responsible to comply with all State Board rules except those specifically waived in their charter.
Utah State Board of Education (USBE):