Charter schools and public schools are both forms of taxpayer-funded education in the United States that are free of charge and open to all students regardless of family income. However, there are several differences between them, including:

Charter Schools:

• Are publicly-funded, tuition-free schools that operate autonomously through individual agreements, or charters, with state or local governments that dictate rules and performance standards.
• Have greater operating freedoms than public schools, including more flexibility in curriculum and standards.
• Can vary widely from institution to institution when it comes to the curriculum, schedules, teaching methods, and other factors.
• Are accountable for academic results and for upholding the promises made in their charters. If a charter school does not meet performance goals, it may be closed.

Public Schools:

• Are part of a public school district, which dictates curriculum and standards in all schools.
• Have a set curriculum as designed by the district and offer the same types of classes no matter where they are located.
• Are governed by a school board.

Both charter schools and traditional public schools are open to the public and offer enrollment that is open and free to all students. They also both admit students based on their location. However, charter schools usually have capped admission, whereas district schools usually do not have.

Its important to note that while charter schools have greater flexibility, they are not necessarily better than public schools. A 2019 U.S. Department of Education study found that there was no meaningful difference between the eighth graders in charter schools and public schools when it came to math or English proficiency, as measured by the National Assessment of Educational Progress. Ultimately, the choice between a charter school and a public school depends on the individual needs and preferences of the student and their family.