School Choice in

California

California provides K–12 students and their families a few types of school choice, including charter schools, magnet schools, home schooling and limited public school choice via open enrollment. California does not have any private school choice programs.

Fast Facts Policy Toolkit Regulations State Groups

Private School Choice

California does not have a private school choice program. State lawmakers have considered tax-credit scholarships and education savings accounts in the past.

Public School Choice

California has some limited open enrollment policies, which allow students to attend traditional public schools outside their zoned school. California also allows magnet schools.

Charter Schools

California has many charter schools, which are publicly funded schools that are free from many of the regulations that restrict traditional public schools.

Homeschool

Parents have to meet certain laws in California when homeschooling their children.