One of the hardest times for a new Teacher is deciding between working for Charter School and Public School. Understanding the difference between the two types of school settings may assist you in making the decision.

Government funded and controlled schools that are found in greater numbers than chartered schools are different from one another primarily in the manner of its funding and control. While the Government directly funds and controls the public schools that are meant for the public at large, charter schools are more autonomous that are set up with a specific mission or goal and are like independent public schools. Charter schools are founded alongside public schools and in some cases are housed inside them. Charter schools are set up to offer an alternative educational option and intake of students depend on the number of seats that are available.

A close look into the features of these schools will give better understanding.
Public Schools:

• Control and Funding: Public schools constitute of elementary schools followed by middle schools and then high schools. These schools are bound by the regulations of the government at three levels – at the federal level, The US Department of education oversees its functioning, at the state level it is within the control of the education departments and at the local level it is governed by the school district regulations. The state government directs each school district to set the standard of education and the latter is responsible for funding, setting of curricula and employment.
• Job Opportunities: There is plenty of teaching job openings in public schools that need dedicated and talented teachers. The demand varies between regions, the subject and grade level but there is no dearth of jobs.
• Job Security: Job security for public school teachers is much more than any other occupations.
• Salary: The salary is negotiated through the union to which the teachers belong and gives the advantage of collective bargaining.

Charter Schools:

• Control and Funding: Charter schools are founded on the basis of specific mission of the founders that forms the charter of contract between them and the state or community board of education. The charter contains guidelines about how the school will function and be managed including study programs, academic assessments and guidelines for admission and employment. These schools arrange their own funds and are out of the government’s controls.
• Contractual Obligation: Charter schools are expected not only to meet the educational standards of the state but surpass it. The contract for functioning with a specific goal and purpose is valid for five years and the school is responsible for the performance of students. Inability to fulfill the obligations of the contract and meet the standards can result in disqualification of the school.
• Center of Excellence: These are centers of excellence with obligations to the community and have high reputation for exceptional performance.
• Innovative Teaching: New teaching procedures that benefit the students are encouraged.
• Job Opportunities: Jobs are much more demanding and opportunities for jobs of teachers are less as there are fewer schools.
• Job Security: This is also less as compared to public schools and based on performance that is set to very high standards.

These are only some of the basic differences though there are many more that sets these schools apart. Regardless of your choice in teaching at a Public School or Charter School the most important thing to keep in mind is that Teaching is an amazing opportunity to make a difference in the community and in future generations. Enjoy teaching!