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.
California
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 School Choice
California has many charter schools, which are publicly funded schools that are free from many of the regulations that restrict traditional public schools.
Home School Choice
Parents have to meet certain laws in California when homeschooling their children.
K-12 Education in California Polling Insights
Learn more about your state’s views and preferences on important K–12 education topics.