WASHINGTON (AP) - The District of Columbia's public charter schools are expelling students at a far higher rate for discipline violations than the traditional public schools.

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An analysis by The Washington Post found charter schools expelled 676 students over the past three years, while the traditional public schools expelled 24 students.

Charter schools have more latitude in deciding what student behavior they will not tolerate. Parents and activists say some charter schools expel students mid-year. Those students then enroll in public schools, which are legally bound to take them.

Scott Pearson, executive director of the D.C. Public Charter School Board, says expulsion rates surpassing the national average is cause for concern. But he says new regulations aren't necessary.

Another charter schools leader says they should create an alternative school for troubled students.