Perspective | Public charter schools are thriving because they’re working for NC families

As we approach the 30th anniversary of charter schools in North Carolina in 2026, the newly released 2024 Annual Charter Schools Report, prepared by the Office of Charter Schools, offers a powerful reminder of why these schools matter — and why they continue to thrive.

With more than 153,000 students now enrolled in 208 charter schools across our state, public charter schools serve over 10% of North Carolina’s total public school population. In fact, more families are choosing charter schools each year, with over 74,000 students on waitlists — an unmistakable sign that parents are seeking greater options in their child’s education.

What makes charter schools so attractive to families? It comes down to choice, flexibility, and accountability.

Each charter school is unique — whether it’s a classical model, a STEM-focused curriculum, a dual-language program, or a school emphasizing the arts or career preparation. These diverse learning environments allow parents to select the school that best matches their child’s needs and interests. And because charter schools are held to high standards of performance and compliance, they are not only innovative, but also accountable.

The report makes it clear that charter schools are meeting these expectations:

• 99% of schools met at least 80% of operational compliance standards.
• Only two schools received financial caution or disciplinary status, a record low.
• Schools showed strong academic accountability while continuing to improve access for
• students from all backgrounds.

Of course, challenges remain. Charter schools continue to operate with fewer resources than traditional district schools — especially when it comes to facilities and transportation. Many charter schools must fund their buildings out of operational budgets, and staffing shortages persist across the sector.

But as the report notes, these schools are not backing down from those challenges. Instead, they are stepping up — with transparency, resilience, and a focus on student success.

What we see in this report is not just a collection of numbers, but a testament to the hard work of teachers, school leaders, and families who believe in public charter education. We also see a roadmap for continued growth — growth that will require fair funding and policies that support
public charter schools.

To our state leaders and fellow citizens: the demand for charter schools is real. The impact is measurable. And the opportunity for every North Carolina student to thrive is within reach, if we choose to support it.

It’s time to invest in what’s working. Charter schools are not a threat to public education — they ARE public education. Let’s ensure every family has the ability to find the right fit, and every student has a chance to succeed.

About the author: Now in her eighth year as executive director of the North Carolina Association for Public Charter Schools, Rhonda is proud of the progress the organization has made in serving the needs of the state’s public charter schools. She is a veteran educator who taught 9th-12th grade English for 18 years and co-founded Uwharrie Charter Academy, Tillery Charter Academy, and the Asheboro High School Zoo School.