ABSTRACT

More than half the states in the country now have legislation allowing an organization such as a museum to create and operate a chartered public school in almost any form the museum wants. This chapter is a fervent though sober invitation to museum educators to consider this possibility. It illustrates the process and the possibilities with examples from Chrysalis Charter School. Carter House Natural Science Museum in Redding, California, started Chrysalis Charter School in August 1996, in collaboration with Enterprise School District. This public school focuses on nature study and systems thinking. Museums have good relationships with their local schools, teachers, and families that help them build credibility and political support for a museum school. A chartered museum public school offers a powerful opportunity for exploring the synergy between formal and informal learning. Museum educators have a deep awe for the process and individuality of learning.