Charter schools: Charter schools are public schools that operate with freedom from many of the regulations that apply to traditional public schools in exchange for increased accountability requirements. Charter schools have a contract or "charter," which is granted by an authorizing entity -– a school district, state board of education, college or other organization. The charter is a performance contract detailing the school's mission, program, goals, students served and methods of assessment. Charter schools are accountable to their sponsor, or authorizer, to produce positive academic results and adhere to the charter contract, but have more autonomy than regular public schools in determining how to meet their goals. Each state's government determines whether and how charter schools may be established in that state.
Private schools: Private schools are funded and operated by private individuals, nonprofit organizations or corporations, rather than by the government or a public agency. They typically charge tuition and often follow a particular educational philosophy. Private schools include parochial schools, though many private schools have no religious affiliation. Because they are not supported by public funds, private schools are not required to publicly release data, such as test results.