This article explores issues of school choice in Spain and the United States by examining the roles and functions of "centros concertados," publicly funded private schools in Spain, and public charter schools in the United States, to provide key insights into the similarities and differences between them. After making a national comparison, this work looks more specifically at a comparison of two regions--"Comunitat Valenciana" (Valencian Community), Spain and Michigan, United States. It concludes with a discussion about the applicability of the school choice theoretical framework to both educational systems.