This policy brief explores the charter-school concept, looking specifically at: (1) the development of the charter-school idea; (2) current models of charter schools; (3) issues regarding the development of charter schools, such as district reluctance, teacher concerns, organized opposition, fiscal issues, and admission policies; and (4) progress at the state and federal level in the development of charter schools. Charter schools present an alternative to the public-versus-private education dichotomy in the school-choice debate. They are public schools that deliver public education and use public dollars but are organized by individuals or groups as private nonprofit organizations. The charter-school plan in Minnesota, the first state to legislate charter schools, is described in detail. Action in California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Tennessee is also described. A conclusion is that charter schools offer a new vision of educational services and opportunities for parent, teacher, and student empowerment. (LMI)