4th+qtr.+WikiDiscussion+4

= Charter school = From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

**Charter schools** in the United States are [|primary] or [|secondary schools] that receive [|public money] (and like other schools, may also receive private [|donations]) but are not subject to some of the rules, regulations, and statutes that apply to other [|public schools] in exchange for some type of accountability for producing certain results, which are set forth in each school's [|charter].[|[1]] Charter schools are opened and attended by choice.[|[2]] While charter schools provide an alternative to other public schools, they are part of the public education system and are not allowed to charge [|tuition]. Where enrollment in a charter school is oversubscribed, admission is frequently allocated by [|lottery]-based admissions. In a 2008 survey of charter schools, 59% of the schools reported that they had a waiting list, averaging 198 students.[|[3]] Some charter schools provide a [|curriculum] that specializes in a certain field — e.g., arts and mathematics. Others attempt to provide a better and more efficient general education than nearby public schools.

Some charter schools are founded by teachers, parents, or activists who feel restricted by traditional public schools.[|[4]] State-authorized charters (schools not chartered by local [|school districts]) are often established by [|non-profit groups], [|universities], and some government entities.[|[5]] Additionally, school districts sometimes permit corporations to manage [|chains] of charter schools. The schools themselves are still non-profit, in the same way that public schools may be managed by a for-profit corporation. It does not change the status of the school. In the United States, though the percentage of students educated in charter schools varies by school district, only in the [|New Orleans Public Schools] system are the majority of children educated within independent public charter schools.[|[6]]

The film //The Lottery// explores the debate over a specific charter school in Harlem. After viewing the film, I'd like you to weigh in on this debate yourself.

First, list some pros and cons of charter schools...

then write a paragraph in which you explain your opinion (you don't have to take a side).