Charter School

government-controlled school somewhat more independent than the normal Public School-s.

Charter schools are (in 2004) public schools of choice created by parents, educators, Civic leaders and other community leaders, open to all students and designed to improve learning and provide public school choice. Operating initially under a five-year performance contract, these schools are freed from Red Tape and top-down educational bureaucracy in exchange for rigorous accountability for student achievement. Public charter schools must adhere to all health, safety and civil rights laws. There are currently 50 charter schools in New York State, educating over 15,000 students.

But as long as they have to play the Standardized Test game, how independent can they really be?