Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Charter School?

A charter School is a Public School in which educators have designed and created an innovative program in order to meet one of the following purposes: (a) improve pupil learning; (b) increase learning opportunities for pupils; (c) use different and innovative teaching methods; (d) measure learning outcomes using different and innovative forms of measurement; (e) establish new forms of accountability for schools; or (f) create new professional opportunities for educators, including the opportunity to be responsible for the learning program at the school site.

What is the legal standing of a Charter School in Minnesota?

Legislation governing the establishment of charter schools in Minnesota is (Minn. Stat. 124D.10)  This legislation allows administrators, teachers, parents, and community members with innovative ideas for improving learning to form and operate an independent public charter school.  In order to promote innovation, the legislation allows these new models of education to be formed unrestrained by many statutes and rules governing local school districts.

Why can't the Math & Science Academy program exist within an existing public school district?

Several reasons: (a) MSA's Mission can only be accomplished if it is free of the bureaucratic tangles of a large centralized school district; and (b) the autonomy of a charter school allows it to make effective decisions fast and therefore be responsive to the immediate demands of a liberal arts program that focuses on math, science, and technology.

What is the size of the Math and Science Academy?

MSA has approximately 350 students in grades 6-12.

What grades are at MSA?

MSA serves students in grades 6 through 12.

What is the average class size at MSA?

Class sizes are smaller than the average public school district.  On average, we have 20-21 students in each class.

How is MSA governed?

Minn.Stat.124D.10 requires Minnesota charter schools to have an elected Board of Directors.  The Board is elected by the parents and teachers, and by law the majority of the board must be occupied by teachers working at MSA.  The Board consists of 5 teachers and 4 parents.  In addition, one student and the Director serve as non-voting members.

When can students register?

Students may enroll in the winter of their fifth grade year.  Registration usually opens in January and ends in February.  A lottery is typically held with all registered students to determine who is accepted for the upcoming academic year.

Is there a waiting list?

Yes, MSA has a waiting list.  All students who are not accepted for entry are automatically placed on a waiting list in the order of their draw in the lottery.  Students remain on this waiting list until accepted for enrollment or until parents have their names removed.  As the years pass, parents are required to confirm their desire to remain on the waiting list.

What transportation is available?

MSA is located within the boundaries of South Washington County School District 833.  All students who live within District 833 boundaries are entitled to bussing as determined by that district.  Students who reside outside District 833 boundaries must find their own way to school.

How does a Minnesota Charter School get its funding?

General funding comes from the State of Minnesota and the Federal Government, based on pupil units.

Who are the teachers?

The teachers are licensed, energetic, dedicated, and well trained.  Unlike many other public schools, MSA teachers are able to implement a program that they can control and for which they are accountable.  Any qualified teacher can apply.  If you wish to learn more about individual teachers, please visit the teacher's pages section of this website.

Are Math and Science the only courses taught?

MSA has a liberal arts program with an emphasis on math and science.  Students must pass complete programs in science and math including biology, chemistry, physics, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus.  This coursework is coupled with a strong humanities program that encompasses and/or exceeds all state requirements for English, social studies, foreign language, and physical education.  Graduates meet or exceed the MN Graduation Standards in all areas.  Art and Music are also important components of the curriculum.

What kind of electives are offered at MSA?

Art, band (including concert, jazz, improv, and ensembles), theatre, speech, computer science, sociology, psychology, Geographic Information System, forensic science, microbiology, anatomy, electronics, rocketry, A Slice of Pi (the school paper), lego robotics, golf, internships, community service, dance, etc.

Why does MSA require six years of Spanish?

Our small staff limits our ability to teach multiple languages.  Because Spanish is the second most prevalent language used in the United States, we have chosen to emphasize its study.  We want our students to become proficient in the use of this language.

Where can I find out about other Charter schools?

A full listing of these schools, with hot-links, can be found at: http://www.mncharterschools.org/page/1/directory.jsp