2. In terms of student charter school enrollment, Florida is:

• a. Number 1 in the country
• b. Number 2 in the country
• c. Number 10 in the country
• d. Number 4 in the country

Answer: b)Number 2. Florida has more students enrolled in charter schools than any other state except California

3. Florida charter school students do not have to take the FCAT.

• a. True
• b. False

Answer: False. Charter school students have to take the FCAT. Charter schools receive state grades just like other public schools.

4. Florida charter schools do not have to use same textbooks and lesson plans that other district schools do.

• a. True
• b. False

Answer:True! Each charter school may choose its own curriculum for its students.

5. Florida charter schools can follow a different school schedule and have a longer school year or longer school day.

• a. True
• b. False

Answer:a)True! Charter schools may choose to offer a longer school day or school year but must still offer at least 180 days of school.

6. Florida charter schools take money away from the public school system and from public school students.

• a. True
• b. False

Answer:b)False. Charter schools are part of the public school system. They serve public school students, so they can’t be taking funds away from the public schools. Like other public schools, charter schools receive public school funds based on the number of students who attend the charter school.

7. In terms of public funds, Florida charter schools receive:

• a. The same amount per student as other public schools
• b. More per student than other public schools
• c. Less per student than other public schools

Answer:c)  Less per student than other public schools. Every public school receives per pupil funding according to the number of students enrolled. Florida charter schools receive 5% less of this funding, since 5% is withheld by the school district for administrative costs.

In addition, traditional public schools receive a steady stream of tax-generated funds for repairs, renovations and capital equipment, and for building new facilities. Charter schools do not have equal access to these funds. Instead, new charter schools have to rely on operating funds to pay for their facility and capital equipment. Charter schools that have operated for 3 or more years or are part of a feeder pattern can apply for “capital outlay” funds but only if they meet certain rigid criteria.

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