Parent Experiences in Alabama Charter Schools: Satisfaction, Enrollment Decision-Making, and Special Education

This sequential mixed-methods study explored the experiences of parents of students with and without disabilities across six Alabama charter schools, utilizing a survey (n = 460) and focus groups (n = 36). The survey examined parents’ satisfaction, reasons for enrolling at their current school, and reasons for leaving their previous school. Focus groups explored school challenges, strengths, and special education services . Results suggest that there are few significant differences between parents of students with and without disabilities and that parents overall expressed high satisfaction. Perceptions of school responsiveness or inclusiveness did not differ signicantly across race/ethnicity groups or disability status.