In Arizona, the charter schools get money from the school districts just like the public schools do, and you have a choice of which you will send your kids to. We've had great experiences with charter schools... because we chose schools that had excellent faculty members, administrations and strong parental involvement and influence. That, unfortunately, is not the case for all charter schools.
In my town, charter schools are exclusive bundts and covens for liberals. Don't think like them (or exude their pheromes), your kid will be hectored out of the school.
Ditto that. Managed to pick a young charter high school for two of my sons. Because of the quality of instructors, instruction, motivated students and parents, the school quickly became the highest rated school in Oklahoma, and 145th in the nation (US News & World Rept). And this despite being constantly besieged by lawsuits from the union-driven educational establishment.
One son is in college now and the other is about to start. If the first one's experience is any indication, the rigors of the charter school made college much easier. And the scholarships and AP classes have saved me a ton of money. So my experience with charter schools is very positive.