How Do Alternative Schools Get Funded?

What is an Alternative School?

An alternative school is an educational environment that provides services, support and/or academic offerings that are different from traditional public school offerings.

Public Alternative School Funding

Public alternative schools include specialized schools for behavior, charter schools and magnet schools. These schools receive funding from the public education system.

Magnet schools and other alternative programs are run by the public school system and serve students who have specific academic interests and/or need unique educational environments. These schools receive funding just like regular public schools. They are free to attend.

Charter schools are public schools that are run by private businesses. They receive public funding, but usually less then mainstream public schools. Charter schools often seek additional funding through grants, fundraising activities and in-kind donations. They may need to share classroom space with other non-school time programs, solicit donations of office supplies and be creative about getting the resources they need.

Private Alternative School Funding

Private schools are not covered by the public school system. They may be funded privately, such as through private organizations, donations, and fundraisers. Or, they may receive the bulk of their funding through public funds such as government grants and publicly traded corporations. Most schools operate with a mixture of funds. It is important to note that certain types of funds may come with expectations and/or restrictions. For example, funding from a church may stipulate that specific religious doctrines are included in the curriculum.

Many private schools receive donations from alumni. This may come in the form of simple donations, or through endowments and estate planning. Endowments are large sums of money invested on behalf of the school, who can then use part or all of the interest/dividends to help cover the budget. Endowments are usually specific as to their intended use. They might go towards a scholarship fund, the library, or a particular sport or club. Some alumni may choose to will their estate to the school upon their death. This money typically goes into an endowment as well.

Homeschool and Unschooling

Some families may decide that the local schools don't meet the educational goals for their children. They may want a curriculum that better aligns with their religious beliefs or they may not feel as if their child's specific needs will be met in a classroom setting. Sometimes health concerns, such as chronic illness or food allergies might be the cause for education children at home.

Homeschooling and unschooling families are typically not part of the public school system, per se. However, in some communities, these families may receive free resources or access to public school classes. Children who are unable to attend public school for health or other concerns are most likely to receive special services from the town. Some states have more formal relationships with homeschooling families and this allows them to access public school resources.

Most homeschooling families cover the entire cost of educational materials, resources and additional support themselves. While it is more expensive than making use of public education, it is usually much less expensive than private education, especially when multiple children are involved.