Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between charter and public schools?
Charter schools are public schools of choice, meaning that families choose them for their children. They operate with freedom from some of the regulations that are imposed upon district schools. Charter schools are accountable for academic results and for upholding the promises made in their charters. They must demonstrate performance in the areas of academic achievement, financial management, and organizational stability. If a charter school does not meet performance goals, it may be closed.
Why do parents choose a charter school?
The reasons that parents choose charter schools for their children are just as unique as the students themselves. They choose charter schools because of the strong, dedicated teachers, because the school's focus matches their child’s needs, or simply because their child was struggling in their assigned public school and needed to try something new. Charter schools provide families with options in public education, allowing parents to take a more active role in their child’s education.
Are charter schools all the same?
No. Charter schools can vary a great deal in their design and in their academic results.
Who can start a charter school?
Parents, community leaders, social entrepreneurs, businesses, teachers, school districts, and municipalities can submit a charter school proposal to their state's charter authorizing entity.
How are charter schools funded?
As public schools, charter schools are tuition-free. They are funded according to enrollment levels and receive public funds on a per pupil basis. In some states, such as Alaska, Colorado, Minnesota, and New Jersey, they receive less than 100% of the funds allocated to their traditional counterparts for school operations. In most states, charters do not receive capital funds to support facility expenses. Charter schools are entitled to federal categorical funding for which their students are eligible, such as Title I and Special Education monies.
What makes Woodland Prep different from other schools?
Woodland Prep has the following key attributes: a college preparatory mission; high standards for academics and character; a highly structured learning environment; a longer school day (after school programs and free Saturday tutorials); a focus on accountability and data-driven instruction; and a faculty of committed and talented leaders and teachers.
When can I enroll my child to Woodland Prep?
Woodland Prep requires parents to submit a complete application form in order to be considered for admission. For the first year of operation, application period starts at the beginning of February 2019 (beginning month) and at the end of May 2019 (closing date). For the following years, the beginning and ending dates of the application period will be January 10th and March 15th of each year, respectively. We will notify our community prior to the enrollment date.
How is my child selected for the school?
Each school admits students through a random lottery. A lottery is to be conducted if the number of applicants exceeds the maximum enrollment. The lottery shall take place within fifteen days after the closing date of the application period. Each student will be assigned a number. Numbers will be written on a piece of a paper (1” by 2”) and folded twice.
Numbers will be placed in a container and randomly drawn one number at a time by the principal or his/her designee. The lottery will be supervised by at least one member of the board or his/her designee and by a representative from the education management organization. Results of the lottery shall be certified by a notary public.
Siblings Policy and Children of the School’s Founders and Teachers
Siblings of returning students will be exempt from the lottery and will obtain automatic admission. Siblings of returning students are required to follow regular admission procedures. Additionally, children of the school’s founders and teachers (so long as the total number of students allowed constitutes only a small percentage of the total enrollment) as permitted by the federal guidance on the Charter Schools Program are exempt from lottery requirements.
Admission Process of Returning Students
Once students are selected and they do not need to go through a lottery in the following years. These returning students (students who currently attended the school and intend to return the next school year) are given priority in admission, if they notify the school of their intent to return for the next school year by February 1st of each school year.