Charter Schools Mary Amsler & Lori Mulholland, 1992 6 pages. Abstract This policy brief explores the charter-school concept, looking specifically at: (1) the development of the charter-school idea; (2) current models of charter schools; (3) issues regarding the development of charter schools, such as district reluctance, teacher concerns, organized opposition, fiscal issues, and admission policies; and (4) progress at the state and federal level in the development of charter schools. Charter schools present an alternative to the public-versus- private education dichotomy in the school-choice debate. They are public schools that deliver public education and use public dollars but are organized by individuals or groups as private nonprofit organizations. The charter school plan in Minnesota, the first state to legislate charter schools, is described in detail. Movement in California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Tennessee is also described. One conclusion is that charter schools offer a new vision of educational services and opportunities for parent, teacher, and student empowerment.