How to Choose a Charter School
When it comes time for your family to explore the top charter schools in Vineyard, Utah, you
often start out with more questions than answers. How do you narrow down your
choices, eliminate the schools that don’t suit your needs, and ultimately
choose the best school?
It seems overwhelming at first, but don’t worry! We’ve
assembled this quick 3-part resource to guide you in your search.
What Is a Charter School?
A charter school must gain approval from their state, but
operates independently from the local school board. Since charter schools are
funded with public money, they must allow open enrollment. This means any child
may attend as long as there’s a space available. As a public school, charter
schools are free to attend.
A charter school is often smaller in size than a local
public school. It may require more parental involvement and may not have the
resources to offer the same extracurricular programs offered by a large public
school. Some charter schools focus on a particular academic area, such as STEM
or the arts.
So how do you choose?
Research
Begin by doing the legwork and finding out as much as you
can about our charter school. In Utah, the Utah Association of Public Charter
Schools offers wonderful resources for families and the ability to research our
school. Attend local meetings and conferences in the area and network with
parents affiliated with our school as much as possible. Parents of current students are one of the
best sources of accurate information about our school.
Visit the School
While the Franklin Discovery Academy website will provide an
important look at our school’s mission and philosophy, a school visit is an
essential part of the process. Make an official appointment with us so that
you’ll be able to meet with as many members of staff and faculty as possible.
Be prepared with questions, and don’t be afraid to be
direct. We want you to be sure that our school is prepared to serve your child
in the years to come.
Attend an Open House or School Event
Franklin Discovery Academy hosts many events throughout the
year to introduce the school to the public.
Check out our calendar on the school’s website for current events.
