SCHOOLS

Operating Schools

162

Minnesota is home to the nation's first charter school. 45 percent of the state's charter schools are in the Twin Cities Metropolitan area, which includes St. Paul and Minneapolis.

Total Enrollment

28,371

Minnesota charter schools serve a disproportionate number of low-income and disabled students when compared with district public schools.

Resource

The National Charter School Directory offers complete listings, including school address, program description, and website.

LAW

Grade

A

Rank

2nd out of 40 laws

Resource

CER's 2010 point-by-point profile of Minnesota's charter law looks at approval process, operations, funding, and teacher and student provisions.

EQUITY

Funding

The state's charter law provides for equitable funding and lease aid. Minnesota's charter schools receive, on average, $7,736 per pupil not including other federal or local funds, compared to the $10,791 that conventional district public schools receive.

Resource

More information on equity issues at Charter School Funding: Following the Money.

ACHIEVEMENT AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Test Scores

In Minneapolis, 13 percent more eighth grade charter students scored proficient or advanced in math compared with their public school peers.

Closures

Charter school closures are evidence of accountability in action. As of February 2009, 29 Minnesota charters had been closed, the majority for financial or management reasons. Most of Minnesota's authorizers have demonstrated strong oversight of charter schools—allowing for success among traditionally hard to reach students.

Resource

Accountability Report 2009: Charter Schools: In-depth information about charter achievement and accountability, including state-by-state analyses and closure listings.