FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
Why are early out days on Wednesday and not another day of the week?
Early out days will allow our teachers the valuable time needed for meetings with other teachers to work collaboratively building lesson plans, reviewing student progress and creating timelines and calendars. Additionally, it gives teachers more time to correspond with parents. Having early out on Wednesday as opposed to a Friday will allow teachers to immediately implement needed student interventions as discussed at faculty meetings. LPA's goal, of course, is student achievement. Time dedicated to teacher collaboration will genuinely allow our teachers to excel and improve instruction time which in turn will lead to academic excellence for our students.
What are charter schools?
Charter schools are independent public schools sponsored by the Utah State Office of Education. They operate on three basic principles:
- Accountability: Charter schools are judged on 1) how well they meet the student achievement goals established by their charter and 2) how well they manage the fiscal and operational responsibilities entrusted to them. If they fail to deliver, they are closed.
- Choice: Through increased involvement by parents, smaller school size, and a board governed by parents and educators, charter schools often better meet the needs of students.
- Autonomy: Charter schools are free from some traditional regulations that divert a school's energy and resources.
- This allows educators to focus more on setting and reaching high academic standards for their students.
Are charter schools subject to the same laws and regulations as other public schools?
As a general rule, yes. Laws regarding religion in schools, school fees and tuition, health and safety, civil rights, annual reports, and most other matters are the same. Charter schools may only employ educators who hold valid teaching certificates and who meet State Board requirements.
Do charter schools take money from public schools?
Charter schools are public schools. If a child leaves a traditional public school for a charter school, the money follows that child. Just as state funds follow the child from a charter school to a traditional public school.
How are charter schools financed?
As a public school, charter schools receive revenue per pupil according to state guidelines. A charter school may not charge tuition or require students or parents to make donations and is subject to the same rules regarding school fees as other public schools.
How do charter schools offer enhanced academic programs with the same (or fewer) resources than traditional public schools?
Through the combined efforts, creativity, and hard work of dedicated parents, teachers, and administrators.
May a charter school limit its enrollment to certain students?
No. A charter school is part of the public education system and is open to all students, without discrimination, on the same basis as other public schools. If the number of applicants exceeds the available capacity of the grade levels within the school, students will be selected at random by lottery. Enrollment preferences are extended to children of founders, staff and siblings of enrolled students.
LPA invites all members of the LPA community to assist in promoting and supporting the school’s mission. Each program at LPA is regularly evaluated in light of LPA’s Mission Statement, DRSLs, and School Guidelines. Feedback and input are always welcome as we work to refine our programs to better reflect our mission.
LPA invites all members of the LPA community to assist in promoting and supporting the school’s mission. Each program at LPA is regularly evaluated in light of LPA’s Mission Statement, DRSLs, and School Guidelines. Feedback and input are always welcome as we work to refine our programs to better reflect our mission.