Page 32 - Superintendent Annual Report 2023-24

Charter Schools

The Department of Charter Schools supports, reviews, and renews the 47 charter schools located in the School District of
Palm Beach County. These charter schools operate in all major geographic areas of Palm Beach County, providing school
choice to over 22,000 students in elementary, middle, high, alternative, exceptional student education, and technical
educational school settings.

Charter schools are tuition-free public schools that operate under a performance contract or “charter” agreement between
a governing board and the local public school board. Charters are independent public schools of choice responsible for
hiring teachers, designing academic programs, and controlling finances. They have more flexibility to provide a unique
curriculum while remaining accountable for advancing student achievement.

Pursuant to Florida Statute 1002.33, charter schools shall:

• Improve student learning and academic achievement;
• Increase learning opportunities for all students, with particular emphasis on low-performing students;
• Encourage the use of innovative learning outcomes; and
• Require the measurement of learning outcomes.

The School District of Palm Beach County is committed to sponsoring a system of high-quality charter schools to provide
students and families with school choice and innovation that promotes educational excellence. The Department of Charter
Schools operates under the three core principles:
• Maintain high standards
• Uphold charter school autonomy
• Protect student and public interests

The District recognizes charter schools as important partners in providing quality choice options for the students and
families of Palm Beach County.

Virtual and Home Educational Services

The Department of Virtual and Home Educational Services supports academic excellence and growth by implementing
innovative and differentiated learning approaches through virtual education, hospital homebound, and home education
outside of the traditional brick-and-mortar environment.
• Palm Beach Virtual School is a K-12 option in Palm Beach County. It offers full-time and part-time options. All full-
time students work on a flexible schedule, and all courses are asynchronous.
• Hospital Homebound is a temporary intervention service. The primary goal is to minimize instructional gaps by
providing access to the curriculum while the student is medically confined and to promote re-entry into a traditional
setting.
• Home education is a parent-directed educational option. Parents have the freedom to determine their child’s
educational path and plan for reaching their goals. Students have the opportunity to explore and learn at their own
pace.
• For FY24, over 14,000 students participated in virtual and home educational services.

32 Superintendent Annual Report 2023 - 2024