Choosing the right school is a big decision. Whether you’re exploring options for your preschooler or considering a switch for your older student, the facts matter — especially when they point to real, measurable gains.
Charter schools in Michigan — especially in metro Detroit — are making a difference in student success. From learning gains to tuition-free access and strong outcomes for students overcoming barriers, the numbers tell a powerful story.
And these gains aren’t just recent. According to the National Charter School Study from CREDO, the Center for Research on Education Outcomes at Stanford University, charter schools have shown a large and positive trend in student learning gains between 2009 and 2023 — a time when performance across the nation remained mostly flat.Â
Want to know more about how charter schools compare? Here’s what the data says.
Charter students get 36 more days of reading progress
According to the Stanford study, students in Michigan charter schools gain the equivalent of 36 additional days of learning in reading each year compared to their peers in traditional public schools.Â
This is a measurement of student-to-student growth compared to a same-grade peer in a traditional public school. That’s nearly two months of extra progress — just by virtue of the environment they’re in.
And, the longer a student stays enrolled in a charter school, the better the academic outcome.
They also get 24 extra days of math mastery
Math can feel like a make-or-break subject for many students. In Michigan charter schools, kids are gaining 24 extra days of learning in math each school year.Â
That added time isn’t about longer days — it reflects how much more effectively students are progressing. In urban schools, students get even more: 29 days of growth in math.
“Each student and each school is a proof point that shows it is possible to change the trajectory of learning for students at scale, as well as dramatically accelerate growth for students who have traditionally been underserved by traditional school systems.” — CREDO Study, 2023.
Michigan Schools are in the top 10 for charter school performance
Michigan charter schools have earned national recognition, landing in the top 10 states for performance.Â
That’s not just a ranking — it’s a testament to quality teaching, innovative school leadership, and the ability to deliver real results for diverse student populations.
Top 10 states in charter school performance are:
- Colorado
- Illinois
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Missouri
- New Jersey
- New York City
- Upstate New York
- Rhode Island
- Tennessee
There are 285 charter schools across Michigan
Michigan is home to 285 charter schools, each with its own focus — from STEM to language to fine arts to college prep. For families in metro Detroit, that means more chances to find a school that matches your child’s learning style, interests and goals.
150,000-plus students enrolled in Michigan charter schools
More than 150,000 Michigan students attend charter schools today. That’s a clear sign that parents are actively choosing this option — not because it’s trendy, but because it works.
$0 in Tuition Costs
Charter schools in Michigan are completely tuition-free. Like traditional public schools, they’re publicly funded and open to all students — no hidden fees or admissions hoops.
“Every single charter school in the state of Michigan is a tuition-free, public entity with nonprofit status.” — MAPSA FAQ
76% of Students Are Beating the Odds
About 76% of Michigan charter school students come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, yet they’re making academic gains that rival or surpass those of more affluent districts. This speaks to the equity-minded mission many charter schools uphold.
In fact, the Stanford University study identified more than 1,000 charter schools nationwide — including many in Michigan — that have eliminated learning disparities and moved student achievement above state averages.Â
CREDO researchers refer to these as “gap-busting” charter schools, proving that the right school environment can dramatically change outcomes for students who’ve historically been underserved.
“Michigan’s charter schools are transforming education across the state, providing access to quality learning opportunities regardless of race, zip code, educational needs or income level.”  — MAPSA
What these numbers mean for your school search in Metro Detroit
For families in metro Detroit, these numbers tell a hopeful story: charter schools in Michigan are providing access and real academic gains.Â
If you’re searching for a school that can meet your child’s needs and help them thrive, charter schools are worth a closer look.
This Content sponsored by The Center for Charter Schools at Central Michigan University and Grand Valley State University Charter Schools Office.
Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Guide to Michigan Charter Schools.
