NHED reports increase in public charter school enrollment

The New Hampshire Department of Education (NHED) has released its 2024 Public Charter School Annual Report, which was presented to the State Board of Education last month. The report provides a comprehensive overview of enrollment trends, student performance, and financial data concerning the state's public charter schools.

Currently, New Hampshire has 38 approved charter schools, with 32 in operation and five scheduled to open in fall 2025. Three additional schools are in the application process and may open by fall 2026. Commissioner Frank Edelblut emphasized the importance of these institutions: "New Hampshire is fortunate to offer a wide range of educational opportunities for its students. We will continue to support public charter schools, as they provide additional learning alternatives, smaller class sizes and innovative teaching methods that are helping many students flourish."

Public charter school enrollment has increased by 44% since 2019, reaching 6,020 students. The Academy for Science and Design in Nashua has the highest enrollment with 672 students. Other notable institutions include The Founders Academy in Manchester with 431 students and Windham Academy with 410 students.

Cassie Hayes from The Founders Academy said that their focus on academic excellence and character development empowers students: "The Founders Academy Public Charter School offers a unique educational experience with a focus on academic excellence, character development, leadership and a strong sense of community." Sara Amacio from Windham Academy highlighted their STEM-centered curriculum: "This approach empowers students to tackle real-world challenges, fostering critical thinking, teamwork and creativity."

Principal Beth McClure of Strong Foundations Charter School noted the emphasis on early literacy: "We named our school Strong Foundations because it gives children a strong foundation in early literacy. They are proud readers."

The report also reveals that the average cost-per-pupil for public charter schools was $10,570 for fiscal year 2023 compared to $20,323 for traditional public schools. Seven out of the operating charter schools cater specifically to at-risk students who struggle in traditional settings.

Additional federal funding under the Every Student Succeeds Act was provided to ten charter schools during fall 2024 for various support improvements.

For further details on New Hampshire's public charter schools, more information is available online.

Information from this article can be found here.