Students at high-performing charter networks are gaining the equivalent of four additional months of learning in math and three additional months of learning in reading per year when compared to similar students in traditional district schools, according to a 2017 study from Stanford University’s Center for Research on Education Outcomes.

This same study revealed that of all student subgroups, students of color and low-income students benefit the most from attending charter schools. For example, A June 2017 analysis of 3.7 million charter students in public charter school networks across 36 states by Stanford University’s CREDO research team found that compared to their peers in traditional district schools, students in high-performing charter networks gain the equivalent of four additional months of learning in math and three additional months of learning in reading per year.

That’s why the foundation supports statewide and national efforts to develop environments receptive to choice, autonomy and innovation. This includes working with local educators and community leaders — as well as with some national organizations active in communities — to support community-based efforts to create environments that support increased educational options.

This means, among other things, helping to ensure that innovative charter leaders can secure the facilities and facilities-financing they need to serve students. It also means working with community-based organizations to understand local conditions and to meet the needs of local families who are demanding better choices.