Charter schools in Ohio are publicly funded schools that operate independently of the traditional school district system. They are established by a charter, which is a performance contract detailing the school’s mission, program, and accountability measures. These schools aim to provide innovative educational options and are open to all students, often with a focus on specific teaching methods or curricula. In Ohio, charter schools are overseen by authorized sponsors, which can include universities, non-profit organizations, and school districts. They receive funding based on student enrollment, similar to traditional public schools. Parents can choose to enroll their children in charter schools, providing them with alternatives to their local public schools.