Charter schools may provide part of the answer to increased demand for restructuring and school accountability/autonomy. This handbook describes in detail the organization and operation of charter schools. Chapters define charter schools, describe their appeal and the approval process, present a model charter-school structure, discuss innovative state legislation regarding charter schools, provide samples of charter-school programs, and outline the creation and operation of a charter school. A chapter titled "The Effect of Charter Schools" notes the following observable trends: (1) school environments are being created in response to student and parent desires; (2) numerous at-risk students are being served; (3) unique business and community partnerships are being formed; (4) larger percentages of existing funds are being focused on instruction; (5) ripple effects are becoming visible across the broader system; and (6) charter schools are not immune from problems. A conclusion is that organization is one of the most time-consuming tasks; however, those people involved with charter schools see it as a bold reform with great promise. One figure is included. (LMI)