Do I have to pay to go to a charter school.?
No, charter schools are free and publicly funded much like public schools, the difference being that you can choose to go to a chater school.

What is a charter school?
A charter school is a new form of public school that may be started and operated by individuals or organizations from outside of the traditional school district system . Successful charter school developers are granted a charter to operate a public school for a fixed period of time (in California usually for 5 years).

How are charter schools funded?
In California , charter schools receive state and local funding in a per student allotment. This allotment is based on statewide averages, dependent on the grade level of the students. Many charter schools also receive state and federal funding through categorical programs like Title I or class size reduction. In addition, many charter schools apply for and receive funds from the federal charter schools grant program administered by the California Department of Education. Several charter schools also receive contributions from individuals and private foundations to support their operations. As public schools, charter schools are not allowed to charge tuition. For more information about the California Department of Education ' s Charter School Grant Program

How are charter schools governed?
In California charter schools are established or remain a legal arm of the school district or county office of education that granted their charter. Other charter schools, a.k.a. legally "independent" charter schools, function as independent legal entities and are usually governed by or as public benefit ("not-for-profit") corporations.

Do charter schools have to provide special education programs and services?
Charter schools must provide a free and appropriate education for children with special needs identified in an individualized education plan, but may contract with a private vendor, school district, Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA), or other agency to provide the services. Charter schools are required to follow federal laws pertaining to special education (e.g., Section 504, Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA), and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).