What is a Charter School?

At Mountain School, we believe that education should inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning. As a tuition-free, K-5 charter school in Flagstaff, we offer an engaging, hands-on approach to education that blends STEM, the arts, and outdoor exploration. With a strong emphasis on community, small class sizes, and a supportive learning environment, our students thrive academically and socially.

What is a Charter School?

In Arizona, charter schools are defined as tuition-free, public schools that operate independently of traditional school districts. Arizona charter schools cannot charge tuition and must conduct a lottery if more students apply than there are available spots. They cannot discriminate based on race, gender, disability, or academic ability.

How are Charter Schools Funded in Arizona?

Unlike private schools, charter schools are tuition-free options that receive funding from the state. Similar to district schools, charter schools in Arizona receive state funding based on student enrollment. However, they do not receive local property tax revenue, which means they often operate with less funding per student compared to district schools. As a result, many charter schools seek grants, donations, and other funding sources to support their programs.

What are the Advantages of Charter Schools?

Charter schools like Mountain School offer families an educational experience that is different from traditional public schools, providing parents with more choices in selecting the best educational environment for their child. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1, highly qualified educators, and a well-rounded curriculum that includes weekly classes in STEAM, Art, Music, Physical Education, and Spanish, our students experience an environment where their individuality is nurtured with more one-on-one attention from teachers.

Do Charter Schools Perform Better Than Public Schools?

Each year, charter schools must administer state-mandated tests and report performance data like traditional district schools. As a public charter school, Mountain School is accountable for academic performance while maintaining the flexibility to implement innovative teaching methods. This balance of structure and independence allows students to thrive academically and socially in a nurturing environment.

Do Charter Schools Have Different Offerings?

Charter schools offer different opportunities not always available at traditional public schools. Mountain School actively engages with the local community, enriching students’ educational journeys and fostering a sense of social responsibility. This involvement helps students develop a broader perspective and understand their role within the community.

Additional Resources

Charter School 101 (National Charter School Alliance) – https://publiccharters.org/charter-schools-101
Advocacy in Action (Arizona Charter School Association) – https://azcharters.org/fairfundingnow

Limited seats are available for the 2025-2026 school year. To learn more about what Mountain School offers, request a tour by visiting the link below:

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