What is a charter school?

A charter school is a public school that operates according to the terms of a charter, or contract, that has been approved by the Duval County School Board. The charter school is bound by its charter contract to be held accountable for meeting its academic or vocational performance-based objectives specified in the charter.

What is the difference between a charter school and a traditional public school?

A traditional public school is organized according to federal laws, State Board of Education rules, and local board of education policies. A charter school is organized according to federal laws and the terms of the charter contract.

How are charter schools funded?

Charter schools are public schools. A charter school is included in the allotment of funds to the local school system in which the charter school is located. The charter school is to be treated no less favorably than any other public schools in the district with respect to funding for instructional and administrative programs.

Who can attend a charter school?

Charter schools are public schools of choice. Any student who lives in the charter school's school district and who submits a timely application may attend a charter school. If the number of applications exceeds the school's capacity, applicants will be selected through a lottery process. A charter school may not have admission criteria. .

What about transportation?

River City Science Academy(RCSA) will provide transportation. School bus transportation will be provided free to all students who live more than one and a half (1.5) miles from RCSA. One and one-half miles (1.5) is identified as a reasonable walking distance to a bus route for students who are eligible to ride a school bus. Please be aware that the Duval County School Board policy is more accommodating than that required by state law. State law establishes a two mile limit before transportation is provided.

Are you going to provide any extracurricular activities?

Yes. For a middle school learning should always be accompanied with exploration. Therefore, River City Science Academy will strive to provide as many opportunities as possible for the students to gain extra experiences. Field trips, sports activities, band, and chorus groups are a few of the many possibilities RCSA will provide.