Charter schools in Texas 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 methods of assessment. These schools have more flexibility in their operations compared to traditional public schools, allowing them to innovate in curriculum and teaching methods. In Texas, charter schools are overseen by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and must adhere to state educational standards. They are open to all students and often have a specific focus, such as arts, sciences, or bilingual education. Parents can choose to enroll their children in these schools, which can provide alternatives to local public schools.