Too many interest groups have pre-determined the effectiveness of public charter schools. Proponents and opponents of school choice have developed plenty of rhetoric, but too little data to support their positions. CSPI is borne out of the need for sound analysis, comprehensive information, and a focus on best practices that can be replicated across the nation. The work of the institute will be conceptually in favor of public school charters, but will attempt to be objective, evidence based, and timely. We think there are lessons to be learned from the best and the rest which will inform sound public policy. Thus it is our goal to identify both what works and what has not worked in the decade long journey to build high quality public schools outside the bounds of conventional education bureaucracy.

Our website is the nexus for all that we do at CSPI. As you navigate our virtual institute, you’ll have ready access to the latest research, analysis of charter school news, state level data on public charter school policy, and the opportunity to debate and discuss the relevant questions of the day. We hope you’ll become an active participant in CSPI events and activities.