The Charter School Movement began in the early 1990s as a way to create publicly funded schools that operate independently from traditional school districts. These schools are established through a charter, which is a performance contract detailing the school's mission, program, and accountability measures. The goal is to provide more educational choices for families and to encourage innovation in teaching methods. Charter schools are often seen as a way to improve educational outcomes, especially in underserved communities. They can be started by various organizations, including non-profits and community groups, and are held accountable for their performance through regular evaluations. This movement has sparked debates about school funding, educational equity, and the role of public education.