Overview Of State Charter School Laws

Overview Of State Charter School Laws

97-769 A
CRS Report for Congress
Received through the CRS Web
Overview Of State Charter School Laws
Updated June 16, 1998
Kimberly D. Jones
Legislative Attorney
American Law Division
Congressional Research Service ˜ The Library of Congress

ABSTRACT
Charter schools exist in thirty-three states and the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
This report provides a brief summary of state charter school laws. The summaries are not
exhaustive but are intended to give the reader an understanding of the charter school process
in various states.

Overview Of State Charter School Laws
Summary
Charter schools exist in thirty-three states and the District of Columbia and
Puerto Rico. Charter schools represent a contractual relationship between a public
school and the local or state boards of education to provide a unique alternative
educational program for teachers, parents, and students. Typically, state charter
school laws address the issues of: (1) how to apply for a charter; (2) what information
is required in a charter application; (3) restrictions or exemptions on charter schools;
and (4) revocation or non-renewal of a charter.
Generally, teachers, parents, non-profit organizations and institutions of higher
education may apply for or sponsor a charter school. Existing public schools may
also seek to convert to a charter school. The application determines the terms of the
contract between the charter applicant and the school board. Practically every state
requires an applicant to detail its: (1) educational methodology, goals and mission;
(2) how educational growth or success will be measured; (3) evidence that the school
is supported and will maintain the support of the parents, faculty and community; (4)
what population the school will serve in terms of age; (5) what are the qualifications
and background of the applicant, sponsor and faculty to run a charter school; and (6)
a description of the financial management and organizational structure of the school.
Charters are normally granted for a specified number of years, typically between 3
and 5, with the option for renewal. The charter may not be renewed if the school fails
to meet the goals of the charter or otherwise violates the terms of the contract.
Charter schools are different from most public schools because their
organization and structure encourage, and in some states require, more collaboration
among parents, teachers and students. Charter schools are typically exempt from
most local rules, regulations, procedures and policies, allowing for more self-
management. However, like other public schools charter schools are prohibited from
charging tuition and from discriminating based on sex, race, national origin or
disability and must comply with general health and safety laws. Admission to a
charter school may be open to any student, but a preference may be given to student
residing in the district (especially if a public school is converting to a charter school),
and to a student who already has a sibling in the school. Religious, home-based
organizations, private schools, and for-profit entities are prohibited from seeking a
charter or converting to a charter school. Accountability is also a characteristic of
charter schools. Because charter schools must seek renewal of their charters most
charter school laws have oversight provisions. These same laws allow the approving
authority, and in some cases the parents and faculty, to reject renewing the charter or
to revoke the charter, if the school fails to fulfill its terms. Typically, charter schools
receive the same funding as a similarly situated non-charter public school and must
file reports describing its status. Listed below is a brief description of the states that
currently allow for charter schools. The summaries are not exhaustive but are
intended to give the reader an understanding of the charter school process in the
various states.

Contents
ALASKA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
ARIZONA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
ARKANSAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
CALIFORNIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
COLORADO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
CONNECTICUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
DELAWARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
FLORIDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
GEORGIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
HAWAII . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
IDAHO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
ILLINOIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
KANSAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
LOUISIANA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
MASSACHUSETTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
MICHIGAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
MINNESOTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
MISSISSIPPI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
NEVADA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
NEW HAMPSHIRE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
NEW JERSEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
NEW MEXICO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
NORTH CAROLINA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
OHIO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
OREGON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
PENNSYLVANIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
PUERTO RICO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
RHODE ISLAND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
SOUTH CAROLINA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
TEXAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
UTAH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
VIRGINIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
WISCONSIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
WYOMING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Overview Of State Charter School Laws
ALASKA
The State of Alaska currently permits the creation of not more than 30 charter
schools in geographically diverse areas throughout the state.1 The local school board
may create its application procedure for charter schools with the input of parents,
teachers, and school employees. The application should include information such as
the mission of the school, a description of its administrative structure, and financial
plan. Charters may be approved by the state board of education or the state board for
charter schools. If approved the application becomes a contract between the school
and the local school board. To that end, the application must detail the proposed
educational program, expected achievement levels, administrative policies, budget,
student-teacher ratio, and the proposed location of the facility.2 To become effective,
the charter application must be approved by both the local and state boards of
education. Alaska charter schools are exempt from the local school districts'
textbook, program, and curriculum requirements. Howev
3
er, the schools must comply
with federal, state, and local laws concerning health, safety, and civil rights. Alaska
charter schools are funded at the same levels as a comparable non-charter public
school.4 A contract for a charter school may not exceed five years and may not be
extended beyond July 1, 2005.5
ARIZONA
The State of Arizona established a State Board for Charter Schools consisting
of the state superintendent of public instruction, three members of the general public
who meet specific requirements, two members of the business community appointed
by the governor, and three advisory members from the state legislature chosen by the
leaders of both the state House and Senate. Among the duties of the Board ar
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selection and supervision of charter schools. Applicants seeking to establish a
charter school must submit a detailed plan describing, among other things, the charter
1 Alaska Stat. § 14.03.250 (Michie 1996).
2 Alaska Stat. § 14.03.255.
3 Alaska Stat. § 14.03.255.
4 Alaska. Stat. § 14.03.260.
5 Alaska Stat. § 14.03.275.
6 Ariz. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 15-182 (West Supp. 1996).

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school's mission, organizational structure, financial plan, and grades served.7 Charter
schools may be sponsored and the sponsor "may contract with a public body, private
person or private organization for the purpose of establishing a charter school
pursuant to this article." Applicants are required to submit to a federal and stat
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e
criminal background check. Charters are granted for 15 years at which time th
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charter school may seek a renewal. The sponsor of the charter school may deny the
request for a renewal if the charter school has not met the sponsor's expectation or
is not in compliance with the school's charter.
ARKANSAS
Applicants for a charter school in Arkansas must petition the State Board of
Education. An existing school may petition for a charter if: (1) the local schoo
10
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board approves; (2) the organization representing the majority of teachers approves;
(3) two-thirds of certified employees approve; and (4) if the majority of parents
approve. If the local school board rejects a charter school petition a copy of th
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e
board's reasons for rejection are forwarded to the state board. The state board may
12
not approve a charter unless it has also been approved by the local board. Charters
are approved for an initial 3-year period and may be renewed for one-year or multi-
year periods not to exceed 3 years.
13
CALIFORNIA
California limits the number of charter schools to no more than 100 operating
in any school year. Applicants must submit a detailed plan for the charter schoo
14
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including, among other things, what type of educational program will be used,
measurable pupil outcomes and how those outcomes will be measured, qualifications
and criminal background of employees, and the school's organizational plan. A
15
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applicant for a charter school must obtain the signatures of at least 10% of teachers
in the school district or 50% of the teachers at one school in the district. The petition
must then be submitted to the governing board of the school district which must hold
7 Ariz. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 15.183.
8 Ariz. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 15-183(B). A sponsor may be a school district governing
board, the state board of education or the state board for charter schools. Sponsors are not
liable for debts or financial obligations of the charter school and most sponsors are immune
from personal liability for acts taken in good faith. Id. at 15-183(P) & (Q).
9 Id.
10 Ark. Code Ann. § 6-10-116 (Michie Supp. 1995).
11 Ark. Code Ann. § 6-10-116(c).
12 Ark. Code Ann. § 6-10-116.
13 Ark. Code Ann. § 6-10-116(g).
14 Cal. Educ. Code § 47602 (West Supp. 1997).
15 Cal. Educ. Code § 47605(b)(1)-(5). "Pupil outcomes . . . means the extent to which
all pupils of the school demonstrate that they have attained the skills, knowledge, and
attitudes specified as goals in the school's educational program."

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a hearing regarding the petition. While the school district cannot force students to
attend charter schools, a school district may petiti
16
on to convert all of its schools into
charter schools. A petition for conversion must contain at least 50% of th
17
e
signatures of teachers in the school district and meet the requirements required for
submission of a charter school petition. The school district must also arrange an
alternative public school for students in the district who do not want to attend the
charter school. A charter, if granted, may not exceed 5 years at which point the
school may seek a renewal, not to exceed 5 years. A charter may be terminated if it
is found that the school violated a material part of the charter petition, failed to meet
the pupil outcomes identified in the petition, or is fiscally mismanaged.18
COLORADO
The local board of education evaluates and approves applications for charter
schools. The board must hold hearings and must act on an application within 6
19
0
days.20 An application for a charter school must include, among other things, the
goals of the school, evidence that a charter school is supported by parents, teachers
or pupils, how pupil performance will be evaluated and how the school will be
governed.
21 Colorado also restricts the number of charter schools to be created and
specifies that a certain number of those schools must serve at-risk pupils. Charters
22
or renewal of a charter may not exceed a time period of 5 years. A charter school
seeking a renewal must submit a financial statement and a report on the progress of
the school and its pupils.
CONNECTICUT
The Connecticut State Board of Education reviews and grants charters for both
local and state charter schools. Between July 1, 1997 and June 30, 1999, the State
23
Board may grant no more than 12 local charter schools and no more than 12 state
charter schools. An application for a charter school in Connecticut should contain,
among other things, a detailed description of the goals, educational program and
methodology of the school, the interest of the community, its financial plan and
organizational structure, and qualifications of the school personnel. The loca
24
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school board reviews the application and holds hearings to determine the community
interest within 60 days of receipt of the application. Upon approval the application
16 Cal. Educ. Code § 47605(f).
17 Cal. Educ. Code § 47606.
18 Cal. Educ. Code § 47607.
19 Colo. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 22-30.5-101 et seq. (West 1995).
20 If the board rejects the charter school petition, the applicant may appeal to the state
board of education. Colo. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 22-30.5-107(3).
21 Colo. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 22-30.5-106.
22 Colo. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 22-30.5-109.
23 Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 10-66bb (West Supp. 1997).
24 Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 10-66bb(d).

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is sent to the State Board of Education who must vote on the application within 75
days of receipt. A charter may be granted for a period not to exceed 5 years, at which
time the charter may seek a renewal. Applications for state charter schools are
similar. The state board of education evaluates the charter application and holds
hearings in the district where the state charter school is to be located. The state board
must vote within 75 days of receipt of the proposal.
DELAWARE
Delaware's Charter School Act of 1995 allows interested groups to submit
proposals for establishment of charter schools. An application for a charter school
25
must be submitted to a local or state school board on or before December 31, if the
school plans to operate during the next school year. If an existing school wishes to
26
convert to a charter school they must apply by October 30 to begin the charter school
the next school year. Upon receipt of the proposal the school board must conduct
hearings within 20 days. The school board must vote on the application within 90
days. Delaware lists a series of criteria to be reviewed in considering and approving
a charter. Some of the criteria includes the charter's educational goals, evidence of
27
community support, a plan to evaluate student progress and the financial organization
of the school. If approved, the approving authority is responsible for oversight of the
school and must conduct an evaluation 3 years after the school begins operation. If
28
the evaluation is unsatisfactory the charter school may be put on probationary status
pending improvement. If the charter is revoked or p
29
laced on probationary status, the
applicant may seek arbitration by contacting the American Arbitration Association
with both parties splitting the arbitration fees equally.30
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
The District of Columbia Charter Schools Act of 1996 gives the D.C. Board of
Education the authority to evaluate and grant charter applications. Under D.C. law,
31
an eligible applicant includes "a person, group, or organization, including a private,
public, or quasi-public entity, that is nonprofit, nonreligious, nonsectarian, and
nonhome-based, or an institution of higher learning that seeks to establish a public
charter school or to renew a charter pursuant to this chapter." After an application
32
is submitted, the D.C. School's Superintendent will review the application to ensure
it is complete, and if not, inform the applicant of any deficiency and provide
25 Del. Code Ann. Educ. § 501-516 (Supp. 1996).
26 Del. Code Ann. Educ § 511.
27 Del. Code. Ann. Educ. § 512.
28 Del. Code. Ann. Educ. § 515. (Oversight & Revocation Process)
29 Del. Code Ann. Educ. § 516.
30 Del. Code Ann. Educ. § 515(h).
31 D.C. Code Ann. § 31.2801 -31.2853 (Supp. 1997).
32 D.C. Code Ann. § 31.2801(2).

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reasonable assistance to the applicant. Once the superintendent deems th
33
e
application complete (in any case no longer than 60 days after submission), it is
forwarded to the Board of Education and a hearing is held within 30 days of receipt
of the application by the Board. The Board must either accept or reject the charter
application within 30 days of the hearing. If the application is denied, the Board must
describe its reasoning in writing and inform the applicant of the appeals process. An
applicant may appeal a denial to the Council of the District of Columbia whose
decision shall be final and not subject to judicial review.34
Typical of most charter school applications, D.C. requires applicants to detail
their instructional goals and methods, methods of student evaluation, school
operational structure and budget, and the policies of the school. The Board o
35
f
Education will give preference to applications that address at-risk students and those
that seek to locate in existing public school facilities. An existing public school may
36
apply to convert into a charter school if a majority of parents, students and faculty
agree in the form of a petition. If granted, initial charter terms and renewals are for
5-year periods. A Board of Trustees elected pursuant to procedures established in
37
the charter application and consisting of faculty and parents govern the charter
school. Charter schools receive the same amount of funding as a comparable non-
38
charter public school. While the charter school may focus on certain grade level
39
s
or academic subject areas, it may not base admission solely on intellectual or athletic
ability.40 Current public school teachers may seek a 2-year unpaid leave of absence
to teach in a charter school. Employees of charter schools are not considere
41
d
employees of the District of Columbia school system or government. The charte
42
r
school must submit an annual report to the Superintendent detailing student
performance, graduation rates and test scores, the level of parental involvement and
a financial statement. The Board of Education may revoke or refuse to renew
43
a
33 D.C. Code Ann. § 31-2813. The Superintendent may charge a $150 application fee
and may charge an administrative fee to cover the costs of administering and monitoring the
charter school. However the fee must not exceed one-half of one percent of the school's
annual operating budget. D.C. Code Ann. § 31-2820.
34 D.C. Code Ann. § 31-2811.
35 D.C. Code Ann. § 31.2812.
36 D.C. Code Ann. § 31.2811.
37 D.C. Code Ann. § 31-2811.
38 D.C. Code Ann. § 31.2816.
39 D.C. Code Ann. § 31-2823.
40 D.C. Code Ann. § 31.2817.
41 D.C. Code Ann. § 31-2818.
42 D.C. Code Ann. § 31-2818.
43 D.C. Code Ann. § 31.2815.

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charter if it finds that the school is financially unstable, not meeting the terms of its
charter, or failing to make satisfactory academic progress.
44
FLORIDA
The State of Florida allows for the formation of charter schools through creation
of a new school or by conversion of a currently existing public school.45 An
application for a charter school may be submitted by an individual, teachers, parents,
a group of individuals, or a legal entity organized under the laws of the State of
Florida. Regarding a currently existing public school, an application for conversion
may be made by the principal, teachers, parents, and/or the school advisory council
at the school. At least half of the school's teachers and parents must support
conversion to a charter school. A charter application should describe, among other
things, the school's mission, curriculum, instructional methods, and achievement
goals.
The district school board may accept, review, and sponsor a charter school in
the county in which it has jurisdiction. A decision to grant an application for a charter
school is made by the district school board no later than 60 days after receipt of the
application. If the application is rejected, the applicant may appeal to the state board
of education. Once the state board decides on the application, the state board makes
a recommendation that the district school board accept or reject the application
consistent with the state board's decision. Charters are granted or renewed in 3-year
increments. A charter will not be renewed if the school (1) fails to fulfill the
requirements of the charter; (2) fails to meet standards of fiscal management; (3)
violates the law; or (4) for good cause.
46
GEORGIA
The State of Georgia defines a charter as "an academic and or vocational
performance based contract between the state board, a local board of education, and
a local school. . . " Charters are granted for 5 year period
47
s and are exempt from state
and local rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Requests for a charter school
48
are first approved by the local school board and then forwarded to the state board. If
the local board rejects the charter application then the reasons for the rejection are
forwarded to the state board. After the initial five year period, the board may extend
the charter for periods not exceeding five years. The charter proposal must include
44 D.C. Code Ann. § 31-2820. Before revoking or failing to renew a charter, the Board
of Education must send notice of such action to the charter school's board of trustees. The
charter school may request, in writing, a hearing regarding the proposed revocation. The
Board must render a detailed decision in writing after the hearing if it votes to revoke the
charter. The charter school may appeal to the D.C. City Council whose decision is final and
not subject to judicial review.
45 Fla. Stat. Ann. § 228.056 (West Supp. 1998).
46 Fla. Stat. Ann. § 228.056(10).
47 Ga. Code Ann. § 20-2-255-256 (1997).
48 Id.

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a detailed plan on how the school will meet state and national education goals. A
charter may be revoked if the faculty and parents request revocation based on the
failure of the school to fulfill the terms of the charter.
HAWAII
Hawaii's "student-centered schools" allow for "implementation of alternative
frameworks with regard to curriculum; facilities management; instructional approach;
length of the school day, week, or year; and personnel management; and may include
any two or more schools acting jointly." Student-centered schools are exempt from
49
most state laws except for those laws concerning state procurement, collective
bargaining, discrimination and health and safety standards. A local school board is
established which consists of persons representing principals, instructional staff,
support staff, parents, student body representatives and a community-at-large
representative. Each representative is chosen by the corresponding group of the
school. The principal is usually the chief operating officer of the school and, along
with the board, is responsible for the maintenance of the academic standards and
financial management of the school. The educational goals of the school must
correspond to Hawaii's statewide educational performance standards. Charter schools
must conduct annual self-evaluations and the department of education will review the
school 4 years after its initial start-up. The board of education, based on a two-thirds
vote, may discontinue the student-centered school if it fails to meet educational
standards.
IDAHO
The Idaho legislature recently passed the Public Charter Schools Act of 1998.50
The Act limits the number of charter schools to no more than 60 during the first 5
years of enactment. No more than 12 charter schools may be approved within one
year. A charter school may be created as a new school or by converting an existing
public school. However, an entire school district may not convert to charter schools.
Private, parochial and for-profit entities are prohibited from becoming a charter
school. Requests for a charter should be submitted to the board of trustees of a
school district. An already existing public school seeking to convert to a charter must
submit a petition signed by at least 60% of teachers and parents of the petitioning
school. A petition for a new charter school must be signed by at least 30 "qualified
electors" of the district. The board of trustees must hold a public hearing before
deciding on a petition. A decision of the board of trustees may be appealed to the
state superintendent of public instruction.
The charter application should define the school's education curriculum,
standards, testing methods, the school's administrative structure, qualifications of
employees, and admissions procedures. Charter schools are required to submit annual
reports regarding student progress and fiscal operations. Charter schools are funded
49 Haw. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 302A-1123 (Michie Supp. 1997).
5 0 Public Charter Schools Act of 1998, 1998 Idaho Laws Ch. 92 (H.B. 517)(West
1998).

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similarly as other public schools. An initial charter and subsequent renewals may be
granted for a period not to exceed 5 years. A charter may be revoked if it is found that
the charter school has committed a material violation of the charter, failed to meet
student educational standards, or for fiscal mismanagement. If the charter is revoked,
an appeal may be made to the state board of education.
ILLINOIS
The Illinois Charter School Law allows for no more than 45 charter schools.51
Illinois charter schools are exempt from most state laws except those concerning
background checks of school employees, tort liability, state student discipline code,
abused and neglected children reporting requirements, and the Illinois School Student
Records Act.52 A proposal for a charter school should include a description of the
school's educational program, how the success of the program will be measured and
how the school will be governed. Preference is given to a proposal that sets hig
53
h
academic standards, addresses at-risk students and represents "a high level of local
pupil, parental, community, business and school personnel support." Charters ar
54
e
granted for between 3-5 years and are renewed in increments not to exceed five
school years. Charters may be revoked or not renewed if the school fails to fulfill the
requirements of the charter, or the charter school is fiscally mismanaged or the school
is in violation of applicable law. Illinois sets minimum requirements for instructional
charter school personnel.55
KANSAS
Kansas's Charter School law limits the number of charter schools to fifteen.56
Similarly, Kansas requires a detailed application for a charter school. The application
must address the school's educational program, level of interest of the community,
parents, students and teachers, program goals and how they will be measured,
governance structure, qualifications of faculty and staff, health and safety standards,
criteria for admission, student disciplinary policy, and the school's budget. Upo
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submission of a charter school application, the local board of education will conduct
hearings. If approved, the state board of education will be notified and will approve
the charter pending an evaluation of whether the charter is in compliance with
applicable state and federal laws and regulations. An applicant may seek a waiver of
local and state requirements which will be granted if the board of education finds the
reasons for the waiver "meritorious and legitimately related to successful operation
51 105 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. § 5/27A-4 (West Supp. 1998).
52 105 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. § 5/27A-5.
53 105 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. § 5/27A-7.
54 105 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. § 5/27A-8.
55 105 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. § 5/27A-10.
56 Kan. Stat. Ann. § 72-1904-10 (1996).
57 Kan. Stat. Ann. § 72-1906,

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of the charter school." The state board of education makes the final decision o
58
f
whether the waiver will be granted. The charter will be approved for an initial 3
years, after which time the charter will be reviewed for renewal or revocation. If the
board of education opts not to renew or revoke the charter, a hearing must be held
addressing the reasons for revocation or non-renewal.
59
LOUISIANA
The Louisiana Charter School Demonstration Programs Law establishes four
types of charter schools.60 Type 1 is a new school established pursuant to a charter
between a nonprofit corporation and a local school board. Admission to a Type 1
charter school is limited to students who would be eligible to attend a public school
operated by the local school board within the same city or parish. A Type 2 charter
school is a new school established pursuant to a charter between a nonprofit
corporation and the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education. Admission
to a Type 2 charter school is available to students residing in the state. Type 3 is a
preexisting public school converted to a charter established between a nonprofit
corporation and the local school board. A Type 3 charter requires the approval of
faculty and parents of the preexisting school. Admission to a Type 3 school is limited
to students who would be eligible to attend a public school operated by the local
school board within the same city or parish. Type 4 is a preexisting public school
converted to a charter school pursuant to a charter between a local school board and
the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education. The requirements and
admission criteria for a Type 4 charter school are the same as for a Type 3 charter
school.
The State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education and the local school
boards must review proposed charter applications in a timely manner and render a
decision after holding a public hearing. Applicants for a charter school must come
from one of six groups: teachers, citizens, public service organizations, business or
corporate entities, a Louisiana college or university or the faculty or staff of any city
or parish public school or any local school board. Applications for Types 1, 2, and
61
3 charter schools must be submitted to the local school board that has jurisdiction
where the school is to be located. If the local school board rejects a charter
application, the applicant may submit a proposal for a Type 2 charter school to the
State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education. The State Board must notify
the local school board upon receipt of a Type 2 proposal and must allow the local
school board and other interested groups to provide written information regarding the
proposal and to appear at a public hearing prior to a final decision of the State Board.
A proposal for a Type 3 charter school may only be submitted to a local school board
and a rejection by the local school board terminates the Type 3 application process.
The local school board must notify the State Board of charters entered into by the
local school board. After May 31, 2001 only a local school board may enter into a
58 Kan. Stat. Ann. § 72-1906.
59 Kan. Stat. Ann. § 72-1907.
60 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 17:3971-4001 (West Supp. 1998).
61 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 17:3983.

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charter if the total number of charter schools allowed by the law has not been
exceeded. The law allows for a possible maximum of 42 charter schools.
Louisiana requires that 75% percent of the instructional staff at a charter school
be certified teachers, while the remaining 25% must meet minimum state
requirements.
62 Private schools, parochial schools and home-based schools are
prohibited from becoming charter schools. A charter will be granted for 5 years, but
will be evaluated after the third year. They may be renewed for additional 5-year
periods. According to Louisiana law, "[N]o charter shall be renewed unless the
charter renewal applicant can demonstrate, using standardized test scores,
improvement in the academic performance of students over the term of the charter
school's existence." Charter schools are exempt from most state and local schoo
63
l
regulations, except health and safety requirements, minimum requirements for
graduation from public schools, open meetings and public records, school attendance,
required courses of study, religious liberty of students, and sex education, among
others.64 Charter schools must adhere to state and federal laws concerning "civil
rights and individuals with disabilities."
65
MASSACHUSETTS
Massachusetts provides for two types of charter schools, commonwealth charter
schools and Horace Mann charter schools. Commonwealth charter schools are
typically those schools newly created by a charter. Horace Mann charter schools are
currently existing public schools that have converted to charter school status or a
charter school within a public school. Applications for charter schools must be
submitted to the board of education each year by November 15. The board must
review applications and render decisions by February of the next year. The boar
66
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of education may grant charters for 5-year periods. If the charter is approved, the
school is managed by a board of trustees which is independent of any school
committee. The board of trustees is responsible for establishing the school's
curriculum and annual budget. Private and parochial schools are prohibited from
applying for a charter, but businesses, teachers and parents are encouraged to apply.
Colleges, universities and museums are also encouraged to seek charters. Only 50
charters may be granted under Massachusetts law. Out of that 50, 37 must be
commonwealth charter schools while the remaining 13 are reserved for Horace Mann
charter schools.67 Preference for admission to a charter school is given to students
residing in the school district where the school is located and to applicants whose
siblings are already at the school. Massachusetts charter schools "operate in
accordance with its charter and the provisions of law regulating other public
62 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 17:3991.
63 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 17:3992.
64 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 17:3996.
65 La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 17:3996.
66 Mass. Gen. Laws Ann. ch. 71, § 89 (West Supp. 1998).
67 If less than thirteen applications are received for Horace Mann charter schools within
three years of the statute, then the limit of Horace Mann charter schools is reduced to five.

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schools." Charter school students are "required to meet the same performanc
68
e
standards, testing and portfolio requirements set by the board of education for
students in other public schools."69 Public school teachers wishing to teach in a
charter school will be granted a two year leave of absence. An additional two year
extension may be granted and at the end of four years the teacher has the option of
returning to the old assignment or resigning to continue teaching in the charter
school. Probationary status may be given to a failing charter school to allow for a
remedial plan. If the remedial plan fails or if the charter school is otherwise not
fulfilling its charter, the charter may be revoked.
A Horace Mann charter school is a charter operated by the local school
committee and the local collective bargaining agent in which the school is located.70
Charters for Horace Mann schools are granted by the board of education and the
schools operate independently of the school committees which approve them. The
charter application for both types of charter schools are the same, except Horace
Mann charter applications must describe the non-instructional services that will
continue to be provided by the local school district. A preference in admission to
Horace Mann charter schools will be given to students actually enrolled in the school
on the date the application for a charter is filed, then to their siblings, then students
actually enrolled in the public schools of the district where the Horace Mann charter
school is located, and finally to other resident students. Horace Mann charter schools
are exempt from local collective bargaining agreements but employees remain
members of the collective bargaining unit and accrue benefits entitled to them under
the collective bargaining agreement.
MICHIGAN
Michigan's "Public School Academies" are public schools operating as a
corporate body and governmental agency. An "authorizing body" consisting of
71
a
school board, community college or state university may seek to enter into a contract
for a public school academy with the state board. The authorizing body's
responsibilities include selecting and setting the terms of the public academies' board
of directors. The authorizing body receives the state school aid payment which they
are responsible for distributing to the public school academy. The state board must
72
submit annual comprehensive reports on public school academies which describe the
school's mission statement, attendance statistics, dropout rate, test scores and
financial stability. An application for a public school academy should include
73
,
among other things: (1) articles of incorporation; (2) purpose of the academy; (3)
copy of proposed bylaws for the academy; (4) description of governance structure;
68 Mass. Gen. Laws Ann. ch. 71, § 89(h).
69 Mass. Gen. Laws Ann. ch. 71, § 89(h).
70 Massachusetts Charter Schools Amendments, ch. 46, S.B. 1849 (July 11, 1997).
71 Mich. Comp. Laws Ann. § 380-501-517a (West Supp. 1998).
72 Mich. Comp. Laws Ann. § 380.507.
73 Mich. Comp. Laws Ann. § 350.501a.

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and (5) description of school's educational goals, curricula and pupil assessment.74
The authorizing body is responsible for oversight of the academy unless the state
board of education finds that the authorizing body is not properly evaluating the
academy. An authorizing body may not charge a fee or seek reimbursement of
expenses for considering an application for a contract or oversight for an "amount
that exceeds a combined total of 3% of the total state school aid received by the
public school academy in the school year in which the fees or expenses are
charged."
75 A proposal may be presented to the local school board. If the proposal is
rejected, the applicant may petition the board to "place the question of issuing the
contract on the ballot to be decided by the school electors of the school district."76
Teachers in public school academies must be certified unless the academy is operated
by a state university or community college and the teacher is a full-time tenured or
tenure-track professor of the institution. In addition to meeting the requirement listed
above, an academy operated by a community college can employ non-certified
teachers if the teacher has 5 years of teaching experience in the subject.77
Michigan also allows for "chartered educational clinics". "A chartered
educational clinic is a specialty public school academy and shall only serve public
school pupils . . . during hours outside the pupil's normal class hours by providing
special assistance for up to 3 hours per week, pursuant to a written prescription by
the principal of the public school in which the pupil is regularly enrolled on
recommendation of a teacher of the pupil." The requirements for chartere
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educational clinics are the same for public school academies. The contract for both
public school academies and chartered educational clinics may be revoked for failure
to fulfill terms of the charter, violation of the law or failure to meet general public
sector accounting principles. A decision to revoke by the authorizing body is not
subject to administrative or judicial review.
79
MINNESOTA
The goals of Minnesota's "results-oriented charter schools" are to "improve
pupil learning; increase learning opportunities for pupils; encourage the use of
different and innovative teaching methods; require the measurement of learning
outcomes and create different and innovative forms of measuring outcomes; establish
new forms of accountability for schools; or create new professional opportunities for
teachers, including the opportunity to be responsible for the learning program at the
school site." To this end, Minnesota allows for the authorization of no more tha
80
n
74 Mich. Comp. Laws Ann. § 380.502.
75 Mich. Comp. Laws Ann. § 380.502(6).
76 Mich. Comp. Laws Ann. § 380.503).
77 Mich. Comp. Laws Ann. § 380.505.
78 Mich. Comp. Laws Ann. § 380.505a.
79 Mich. Comp. Laws Ann. § 380.507.
80 Minn. Stat. Ann. § 120.064 (West Supp. 1998).

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40 charter schools in the state. To apply for a c
81
harter school application, a sponsor82
may seek approval from the local school board. The sponsor must submit a written
contract listing how the charter school plans to meet the goals outlined by the state.83
If the local school board refuses to sponsor a charter school the applicant may appeal
to the state board of education.
84
A charter school is operated by an elected board of directors chosen by staff
members and parents. Licensed teachers of the school must constitute a majority of
the school's board of directors. Similar to most charter schools, Minnesota's charter
school law explicitly states that the charter schools are nonsectarian public schools
and are prohibited from charging tuition. While exempt from most state laws an
85
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regulations, Minnesota charter schools must still satisfy health and safety standards.
The charter school must submit annual reports to its sponsor and the state board of
education.
86 Charter school contracts "may be up to three years."87 A sponsor may opt
not to renew for "failure to meet the requirements for pupil performance contained
in the contract; failure to meet generally accepted standards of fiscal management;
for violations of law; or other good cause shown."88
MISSISSIPPI
The State of Mississippi recently enacted a Charter Schools Pilot Program.89
Mississippi's charter schools program is limited to currently existing public schools.
The Pilot Program is limited to six local schools throughout the state. A local school
may submit an application requesting charter school status after such application is
approved by the local school board, a majority of school faculty, and a majority of
the parents of enrolled students. The application must also describe how the school
plans to improve student learning and meet state education goals and how the school
plans to measure such progress.
After a school sends a petition for a charter to the local school board, the school
board will consider the request and then forward it to the state board of education. If
a petition is rejected by the school board, the state board of education may request a
81 A currently operating public school may convert to a charter school upon approval
by at least ninety percent of the school's full-time teachers.
8 2 A sponsor is defined as, "A school board, community college, state university,
technical college, or the University of Minnesota." Minn. Stat. Ann. § 120.064 subd. 3.
83 Minn. Stat. Ann. § 120.064 subd. 5.
84 An applicant may only appeal to the state board of education if at least two members
of the local school board vote in favor of the charter application. If approved, the state board
sponsors the charter school. Minn. Stat. Ann. § 120.064 sub. 4.
85 Minn. Stat. Ann. § 120.064 subd. 8.
86 Minn. Stat. Ann. § 120.064 subd. 14.
87 Minn. Stat. Ann. § 120.064 subd. 5.
88 Minn. Stat. Ann. § 120.064 subd. 21.
89 Miss. Code Ann. § 37-28-1 (West Supp. 1997).

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hearing to gather further information. The state board of education grants charters for
a 4-year term and such charters may be renewed on a one-year or multi-year basis not
to exceed four years. A charter school may receive funding from public and private
sources. A charter may be terminated if a majority of the faculty and parents make
such a request to the state board of education. The state board of education may
nullify the charter if it finds that the school is not meeting the terms of the charter.
The state board of education must submit annual reports regarding the status and
progress of charter schools in the state. The Mississippi Charter Schools Pilot
Program contains a sunset provision that the program will end after July 1, 2001.
NEVADA
The State of Nevada recently enacted legislation creating charter schools.
90 A
board of trustees of a school district must apply to the state department of education
to sponsor charter schools within the school district. Once the state board of
education accepts the board of trustees application, the trustees shall provide public
notice of its ability to sponsor charter schools and solicit charter school applications.
Applicants for a charter school should include three licensed teachers. These licensed
teachers may apply for a charter alone or with ten or more members of the general
public, representatives of an organization devoted to service to the general public,
representatives of a private business, or representatives of certain state colleges and
universities. This group of applicants is referred to in the Nevada statute as a
"committee." A committee seeking a charter must submit an application to the
department of education. The charter application must describe what educational
programs will be offered by the charter school, what educational services will be
offered to at-risk students, the admissions policy, the standard of achievement and
how that achievement will be measured. Applicants must agree to provide a written
report to parents, the school's community, and the state education officials at the end
of each school semester. While a charter school is exempt from most state education
regulations, Nevada does require that 75% percent of charter school teachers be
licensed.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
New Hampshire offers two educational alternatives, open enrollment public
schools and charter schools.91 An open enrollment school is defined as "any public
school which, in addition to providing educational services to pupils residing within
its attendance area or district, chooses to accept pupils from other attendance areas
within its district and from outside its district."92 A charter school is defined as "an
open enrollment public school, operated independent of any school board and
managed by a board of trustees." Charter schools operate as nonprofit secula
93
r
organizations under a charter granted by the state board. Before a school district may
consider a charter school open enrollment contract, it must adopt the provisions of
90 Nev. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 386.500-610 (Michie Supp. 1997).
91 N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 194-B:1-22 (West Supp. 1997).
92 N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 194-B:1(VI).
93 N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 194-B:1 (III).

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state law establishing charter schools during its annual meeting. If the school district
does not conduct annual meetings, the legislative body of the school district must
seek a petition from a percentage of registered voters, hold hearings, and place the
issue on the ballot during a regular election.94
New Hampshire exempts its charter schools from state and local rules that are
applicable to non-charter public schools, while providing charter schools with the
same rights and privileges as non-charter public schools. Charter schools are
governed by a board of trustees which must apply to the local school board for a
charter before July 1 of the year before the school is scheduled to open. Eligible
trustees include nonprofit organizations, a group of two or more state certified
teachers, or a group of ten or more parents. Currently existing public schools may
95
apply to convert to a charter school if they obtain school board approval, a percentage
of teachers approve such a conversion, and the school superintendent and principal
agree to the conversion in writing. The board of trustees' application
96
should be in
the form of a contract addressing elements required by the state. There are twenty-
four elements ranging from the school's proposed curriculum to proposals for
encouraging parental involvement. The s
97
chool board evaluates and decides to either
approve or reject the prospective board of trustees' contract. The board's decision is
then forwarded to the state board which will also evaluate the prospective trustees'
contract. If the state board approves the contract, it will issue a charter. If approved
by the state board the contract is sent to the school district for a vote by the school
district's legislative body which may ratify the contract submitted by the trustees or
reject it. The decision of the school district's legislative body is final. Charters are
granted for 5-year terms, but the state provides for termination, renewal, or
amendment of a charter. Renewal terms are for 7 years. An applicant seeking to
amend its charter contract must submit a written amendment to the school board
which has thirty days to approve or reject the amendment. If the amendment is
rejected, the school may appeal to the state board which also has thirty days to
evaluate and issue a decision. If the state board, approves the amendment, the local
school board must execute it; but final approval or rejection rests with the school
district legislature.
98
NEW JERSEY
New Jersey's Charter School Program Act of 1995 allows for the creation of 135
charter schools within a four year period, with a minimum of three charter schools
per county.9 Charters are granted for an initial four year period and then may b
9
e
renewed for a 5-year period. New Jersey also limits the number of students in a
94 N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 194-B:5.
9 5 N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 194-B:3(V). See also N.J. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 194-B:5
describing the duties and responsibilities of the board of trustees.
96 N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 194-B:3(VI).
97 N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 194-B:3.
98 N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 194-B:3(XI).
99 N.J. Stat. Ann. § 18A:36A-1 - 18 (West Supp. 1997).

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newly created charter school to no more than 500 students or 25% of the district's
student body, whichever is less. Parents, teachers, institutions of higher education,
100
and private entities may submit an application for a charter school. Currentl
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y
existing public schools may convert to a charter school if 51% of the school's
teachers and 51% of the school's parents sign a petition requesting conversion to a
charter school. A board of trustees manages the school on behalf of the sponsors and
the school district subject to the school's charter. Charter school applications must be
submitted to the commissioner and the local board of education or to the state
superintendent, if the school district is state operated. The commissioner of the
school board has final authority to accept or reject a charter application. However,
the local board of education may appeal to the state board of education. Information
required in the charter school application does not differ substantially from what is
required in other states. However, some distinctions do exist. Significantly, New
Jersey charter schools are not automatically exempt from state and local regulations,
but they must describe and justify in their application any waiver from state or local
regulations they seek.102 However, teachers are required to be certified by the state.
Public schools converting to charter schools are subject to the applicable
bargaining agreement. Newly created charter school employees are subject to the
collective bargaining agreement only if the board of trustees agrees pursuant to the
school's charter. Public school teachers may seek a three year leave of absence from
the local school board or state superintendent to pursue work in a charter school. If
a charter is granted, the commissioner conducts annual assessments of the school to
ensure compliance with its charter and the commissioner's findings are used in
determining if a charter should be renewed. The commissioner may revoke a charter
if the school fails to satisfy the charter's terms. A charter school may be placed on
probationary status pending the outcome of remedial efforts to gain compliance with
the charter. If remedial efforts fail, the commissioner has authority to revoke the
charter.
NEW MEXICO
New Mexico enacted its charter school legislation with the hope that it would
"encourage the use of different and innovative teaching methods." The act allows
103
for the authorization of five charter schools. Charters are granted for periods not
exceeding 5 years and may be renewed at 5-year intervals. Applicants apply through
their local school board to the state board of education. The local school board is
encouraged, but not required, to evaluate and make a recommendation regarding the
charter application. The state board may authorize a charter school if the applicant
100 N.J. Stat. Ann. § 18A:36A-4.
101 N.J. Stat. Ann. § 18A:36A-4.
102 See N.J. Stat. Ann. § 18A:36A-10 describing the facility that a charter school may
be located in and how such facilities are exempt from most facility regulations, except those
concerning health or safety. See also N.J. Stat. Ann. § 18A:36A-11 which allows the
commissioner to grant waivers to state and local regulations, except those concerning
"assessment, testing, civil rights and student health and safety."
103 N.M. Stat. Ann. § 22-8A-1 - 7(West Supp. 1997).

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submits an application showing that at least 65% of the school's teachers signed a
petition in support of becoming a charter school, parents support the charter proposal,
and present a detailed operational plan and budget. New Mexico does no
104
t
automatically exempt its charter schools from state and local regulations but does
allow them to seek waivers.
NORTH CAROLINA
North Carolina's charter school program has at least six goals: (1) improve
student learning; (2) increase learning opportunities for at-risk students; (3)
encourage innovative teaching methods; (4) create new opportunities for teachers;
(5) expand educational choices available to parents; and (6) hold schools accountable
through measurable results of student outcomes. North Carolina limits itself to 100
105
charter schools statewide with no more than five charter schools per year in one local
school district. Charters are granted for 5-year periods and are renewable for periods
not to exceed 5 years. A board of directors governs the operation of the school.
Eligible applicants include any person, group of persons, or non-profit corporation.106
Existing public schools may convert to a charter school if the majority of teachers
and parents support conversion. An application may be submitted to either the local
board of education, the state board of education, or to the University of North
Carolina. The state board of education has final authority to accept or reject a charter
school application. Charter schools are bound to follow applicable health and safety
standards, minimum academic standards, and civil rights laws. A percentage o
107
f
charter school teachers must be certified. A teacher in an already existing public
school who wishes to teach in a charter school must be granted a leave of absence for
an unlimited duration. A charter may be terminated or not renewed for violation of
the charter, applicable laws, or at the request of the school's faculty.
108
OHIO
In the State of Ohio, charter schools are referred to as "Community Schools."
A community school is defined as "a public school, independent of any school
district, and is part of the state's program of education." A community school may
109
be sponsored by a city, local, exempted village, or joint vocational board of education
of the school district where the school is to be located, or by the state board of
education. An existing public school may convert to a community school.
A proposal to create a new school as a community school may be submitted by
a big eight school district. A "big eight school district" is defined as a school district
that for fiscal year 1997 had a percentage of children residing in the district and
104 N.M. Stat. Ann. § 22-8A-5.
105 N.C. Gen. Stat. § 115C-238.29A - 29G (Michie Supp. 1997).
106 N.C. Gen. Stat. § 115C-238.29B(a).
107 N.C. Gen. Stat. § 115C-238.29F.
108 N.C. Gen. Stat. § 115C-238.29G.
109 Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 3314.01 et seq. (Anderson Supp. 1997).

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participating in Ohio Works First greater than thirty percent and had an average daily
membership greater than 12,000.11 In the case of a new school in a big eight district,
0
the sponsor may be the board of education of the big eight district, the board of
education of any joint vocational school district, the board of education of any other
city, local, or exempted village school district, or the state board of education.
A proposal for a contract for a community school should describe a
comprehensive program detailing the school's academic goals, education program,
fiscal management, and qualifications of teachers, among other things. An initial
contract for a community school may not exceed 3 years.
OREGON
While Oregon does not have legislation specifically addressing charter schools,
charter schools do exist. The legislature and the Governor of Oregon support the
creation of charter schools through Oregon's Alternative Education Programs law.111
An "alternative education program" is defined as a "school or separate class group
designed to assist students to achieve the goals of the curriculum in a manner
consistent with their learning styles and needs." The Oregon Legislature enacte
112
d
legislation that would expand the Alternative Education Programs law to cover the
creation of charter schools. Shortly thereafter, the Governor of Oregon issued an
113
Executive Order directing the State Board of Education to issue regulations regarding
the formation of charter schools under the Alternative Education Programs law.114
PENNSYLVANIA
The Pennsylvania Charter School Law seeks "to provide opportunities for
teachers, parents, pupils and community members to establish and maintain schools
that operate independently from the existing school district structure . . ." A charter
115
school may be established by individuals, teachers, parents, colleges or universities,
corporations or an association. A charter school may be a newly created school or a
public school wishing to convert to a charter school. To convert a currentl
116
y
existing public school to a charter school, an applicant must show by way of a written
petition that at least fifty percent of faculty and parents support a charter school. A
charter school application should describe the involvement of teachers, parents, and
the community and the educational program of the charter school.
110 Id.
111 Or. Rev. Stat. § 329.860 (1996).
112 Or. Rev. Stat. § 336.615 (1996).
113 Oregon Alternative Education Programs, Ch. 164 (S.B. 184)(May 20, 1997).
1 14 Steven Carter, Kitzhaber Order Seeks to Boost Charter Schools, Portland
Oregonian, Aug. 7, 1997, at B01.
115 24 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 17-1725-A ( West Supp. 1998).
1 1 6 Section 1718-A establishes the option of Regional Charter Schools. A Regional
Charter School may be established by the boards of school directors of one or more school
districts.

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To start a new school, an application must be submitted to the local board of
school directors. The local board of school directors must hold at least one public
hearing within 45 days of receiving the charter application. The local board must
allow for at least 45 days after the first public hearing before rendering a decision on
the application. In any case, a final decision
117
must be rendered not later than 75 days
after the first public hearing.118 A charter may be approved for a period of no less
than 3 years and no more than 5 years. Charters may be renewed for 5-year periods.
If an application is denied, the local board of school directors should notify the
applicant in writing clearly describing the deficiencies in the application. A denied
application may be revised and resubmitted. In addition, a denied application may be
appealed to the Charter School Appeal Board, which was established under the
Pennsylvania Charter Schools Law. To appeal an application denied by the loca
119
l
board of directors, the applicant must obtain signatures of at least 2% of the residents,
18 or older, in the school district or one thousand residents, whichever is less, within
60 days of the denial. The appeal board must act on the application within 60 days
of receipt. A denial of a charter by the appeal board is reviewable by the
Commonwealth Court.
A charter may be revoked or not renewed if the local board of school directors
finds that the charter school has violated a material term of the charter, failed to meet
student performance requirements, failed to meet fiscal management requirements
or any violation of applicable laws. Notice of revocation or non-renewal should be
given to the governing board of the charter school. The local board of school
directors must hold a hearing and render a final decision within 30 days of the
hearing. The charter school may appeal to the State Charter School Appeal Board.
A decision by the Appeal Board is reviewable by the Commonwealth Court.
PUERTO RICO
Puerto Rico provides for Special School Districts that are used "for the purposes
of testing pedagogical innovations . . . " The Secretary of Education is authorized
120
to establish the Special School Districts and the necessary rules and procedures for
maintaining them.
RHODE ISLAND
117 An exception of thirty days is made for charter schools beginning during the 1997-
1998 school year. Pennsylvania Charter Schools Law, S.B. 123, Section 1717-A(b)(3)(d).
118 Again, the statute makes a provision limiting the time to 60 days for charter schools
beginning during the 1997-1998 school year.
1 1 9 Section 1721-A establishes the State Charter School Appeal Board. The Board
consists of seven members, one of which is the state secretary of education. The other
members are appointed by the governor with the consent of a majority of the Senate. The
board members must include a parent of a school aged child, school board member, active
certified teacher, school faculty member or administrator, member of the business
community and a member of the state board of education.
120 P.R. Laws Ann. tit. 18, § 1901-1904.

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The Charter Public School Act of Rhode Island allows for a maximum of twenty
charters by July 1, 1997.121 Eligible applicants for a charter school are public school
personnel, public school districts and existing public schools. Applicants mus
122
t
apply to either the commissioner of elementary and secondary education or the
school committee in the district where the school would be located. An existing
public school may convert to a charter school if a majority of parents support the
conversion and two-thirds of certified teaching personnel approve the charter. A
charter school proposal should include, among other things, a description of "a plan
for education, including the mission, objective, method of providing a basic
education, and process for improving student learning and fulfilling the charter, and
fulfilling state and national educational goals and standards. Charter schools ar
123
e
bound by most state laws and regulations. Charters are granted for a 5-year period
124
subject to 5-year renewal periods. Proposals for a newly created charter school must
show that one-half of parents and at least two-thirds of certified teaching personnel
would support the charter school. Once an eligible group has submitted a complete
application, the commissioner or board conducts a public comment period and holds
at least two public hearings. The commissioner or school board will either accept
125
or reject the charter school application within ninety (90) days after the conclusion
of the public comment period. Rhode Island charter schools are funded at the same
level as non-charter public schools. Other services provided to schools districts such
as transportation, food services and maintenance may be contracted between the
school district and the charter school and paid for out of charter school revenue.
Complaints regarding the performance of a charter school may be made to the charter
school's governing body, and if not adequately addressed, then to the commissioner.
SOUTH CAROLINA
South Carolina is one of the latest states to enact charter school legislation. The
South Carolina Charter Schools Act of 1996 was enacted to allow additional
educational opportunities for students and parents, as well as, greater professional
development for teachers. Applications for charter schools must be submitted t
126
o
the local school board of trustees of the school district where the charter school
would be located. Potential applicants must elect a charter committee which wil
127
l
submit an application and organize the charter school as a non-profit corporation.128
121 R.I. Gen. Laws. § 16-77-1 - 16-77-11 (1997).
122 R.I. Gen. Laws § 16-77-3.
123 R.I. Gen. Stat. § 16-77-4.
124 R.I. Gen. Stat. § 16-77-11.
125 R.I. Gen. Stat. 16-77-5.
126 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-10 - 59-40-190 (Law Co-op. 1996).
127 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-60.
1 2 8 The local school district must provide technical assistance to those interested in
establishing a charter school. S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-140(H). The state board of education
is responsible for providing information regarding charter schools and the application
(continued...)

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The charter application constitutes a contract between the charter school and its
sponsor. The sponsor may be either the local board of education or the state board of
education, depending on which approves the charter application. Once approve
129
d
the application becomes a contract between the governing board of the charter school
and the local school district. An existing public school may convert to a charter
school if both two-thirds of the school's faculty and parents agree to the
conversion.
130 The approval and renewal period of the charter school is 3 years.131 A
progress report of the charter school must be submitted along with the renewal
application.132
The local school board, before granting or denying a charter school application,
must hold community meetings. The board must issue a decision within 90 days of
receiving the application.133 If an application is denied, a written explanation for the
denial must be forwarded to the state board of education. The applicant has the
option of addressing the reasons for denial and re-submitting the application or
appealing to the state board of education. Upon receipt of an appeal, failure t
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o
renew or revocation of a charter, the state board of education must hold a public
hearing. If the state board disagrees with the local board's decision, it must remand
the application back to the local board with its findings and instructions. Upo
135
n
remand, the local school board has thirty days to conduct a public hearing and
reconsider its decision, which becomes final. A final decision of the local school
board or of the state board of education is subject to judicial review in the circuit
court for the county where the applicant sought to locate the charter school.136
An employee of the local school district may seek a leave of absence for up to
5 years to teach in a charter school. However this provision does not apply t
137
o
128(...continued)
process to interested applicants. S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-150.
129 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-70(E).
130 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-100(A). The principal submits the application on behalf of
the school. In terms of employee benefits and compensation, teachers and other employees
of the converted charter school remain employees of the local school district. The converted
charter school must reimburse the local school district for employer contributions paid on
behalf of these teachers and employees. S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-100(C).
131 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-110(A).
132 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-110(B).
1 3 3 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-70. If a decision is not rendered within ninety days, the
charter is considered approved.
134 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-70(D).
135 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-90(C)(1).
136 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-90(C)(2).
137 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-130(A). Upon termination of the leave of absence, a teacher
may return to his former employee status but is not guaranteed a return to the same school.
An employee on leave under this provision continues to accrue employee benefits under the
(continued...)

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employees of a converted public school. Charter schools receive the same amount
138
of state and federal funding as a comparable non-charter public school would
receive.
139 Charter schools must submit annual reports to the local school district and
the state department of education detailing its progress in meeting the goals of its
charter. The state board of education must evaluate and publish its findings on
existing state charter schools.140
A charter may be revoked if it is found that the school has violated the terms of
the charter, failed to meet the goals of the charter contract, is mismanaged or violated
any applicable laws.141 The governing body of the charter school must receive 60
days notice of any adverse action and be given the opportunity to hold a hearing to
address the concerns of the sponsor. Any action regarding the charter school i
142
s
abated upon conclusion of the hearing and is appealable to the state board of
education.143
South Carolina charter schools are exempt from state and local regulations that
govern public schools, but they may choose to comply with such regulations.
However, charter schools are required to meet health and safety requirements,
minimum attendance requirements, financial management, and civil rights laws,
among others.144
TEXAS
The State of Texas allows for the creation of no more than twenty charter
schools.1 Those eligible to apply for a charter include an institution of highe
45
r
education, non-profit organization, or a governmental entity. Charter schools are
146
subject to state, federal and local regulations governing public schools. The state
147
board of education is responsible for creating and implementing the application
process and criteria for charter school applicants according to requirements of state
137(...continued)
South Carolina Retirement System.
138 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-130(C).
139 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-140. The charter school must contract with the local school
district for services such as: custodial, food, maintenance, curriculum and media services,
libraries and warehousing.
140 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-160.
141 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-110.
1 42 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-110(E). Any assets or property belonging to the charter
school upon dissolution reverts back to the local board of education.
143 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-110(F).
144 S.C. Code Ann. § 59-40-50.
145 Tex. Educ. Code Ann. § 12.101-118 (West 1998).
146 Tex. Educ. Code Ann. § 12.101.
147 Tex. Educ. Code Ann. § 12.103-104.

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law.
At a minimum, a charter application should include, among other things,
148
a
description of the educational program offered, a minimum level of student
performance, grade levels to be served, school's organizational structure, and the
qualifications of the teachers.1 If approved, the charter becomes a contract between
49
the state board of education and the chief operating officer of the charter school.150
Charter schools are evaluated annually.151
Teachers in charter schools are eligible to participate, or in the case of a
conversion, to continue to participate in the state's retirement plan. Charter schools
152
receive the same level of funding as a comparable non-charter school. A charte
153
r
may be revised, revoked or terminated if the state board of education finds that the
school has violated the terms of the charter, the school is fiscally mismanaged or
otherwise violates any applicable law. The state board of education is responsible
154
for establishing a procedure for revising, revoking or terminating a school's charter
which must include a right to a hearing.
155
UTAH
The Utah legislature recently enacted the "Schools for the 21 Century
Program."
156 The Act creates a variety of educational reforms and includes the "Utah
Charter Schools Act." It creates a 3-year pilot program that allows for the creation of
8 charter schools. A charter school may be created by opening a new school or
converting an existing public school. Potential applicants include individuals, groups,
teachers, parents, and non-profit entities. To convert an existing school into a charter,
a petition must be filed that is signed by two-thirds of the school's parents and
teachers. The initial proposal must be submitted and approved by the local school
board with final approval by the state board of education. Parochial and home
schools are prohibited from becoming charter schools. The charter application should
include information such as the age and grade level to be served, administrative
1 4 8 Tex. Educ. Code Ann. § 12.110. The board may gauge parental support by either
requiring a petition in support of a charter school or through a public hearing. The board's
criteria must require information regarding improvement of student performance and the
financial impact the charter school would have on existing schools in the district. Also see
Tex. Educ. Code Ann. § 12.111 for the required content of a charter school application.
149 Tex. Educ. Code Ann. § 12.111.
150 Tex. Educ. Code Ann. § 12.112.
151 Tex. Educ. Code Ann. § 12.118.
1 5 2 Tex. Educ. Code Ann. § 12.105. Both the school district and the state retain the
responsibility to make any contributions to the retirement plan that they would have to make
if the teacher was an employee of a non-charter school.
153 Tex. Educ. Code Ann. § 12.107.
154 Tex. Educ. Code Ann. § 12.115.
155 Tex. Educ. Code Ann. § 12.116.
1 5 6 Schools for the 21 Century Program, 1998 Utah Laws Ch. 231 (H.B. 145)(Wes
st
t
1998).

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structure, financial plan, methods of assessing students, and qualifications of
teachers. The charter school is required to make annual progress reports to the state
and local boards of education and the state legislature. The charter school is exempt
from most regulations and laws except those concerning health, safety, and civil
rights. The state provides funding for the charter school, including start-up costs and
transportation.
VIRGINIA
Virginia's new charter school bill defines a charter school as "a public,
nonsectarian, nonreligious, or non-home-based alternative school located within a
public school division." A charter school may be created as a new school or a
157
n
existing public school may be converted into a charter school. A charter application
may be submitted by any person, group, or organization. The approved application
shall serve as a contract between the sponsors of the charter school and the local
school board. The application should include, among other things, a mission
statement, educational goals, evidence of community support, statement of need, how
students will be assessed, and a financial plan. Most rules and regulations do not
apply to charter schools, except those concerning civil rights. The local school board
must conduct public hearings regarding a charter school application and the decision
made by the local school board is final and not subject to appeal. The number of
charter schools shall not exceed 10% of the school district's total number of schools.
A charter application or renewal may not be granted for a term beyond 3 years.
WISCONSIN
Applicants wishing to open a charter school must first file a petition signed by
either 10% of teachers in the school district or at least 50% of the teachers at one
school in the district. In addition to the signatures, the petition should include
158
,
among other things, the name of the person applying for the charter, description of
the educational program, the organizational structure of the school, minimum
educational goals and the methods the school will use to measure and achieve them,
qualifications of the teachers, and public school alternatives for students who do not
wish to attend or cannot attend the charter school.
Upon receiving the petition, the
159
school board must hold a hearing within 30 days where the board will consider the
level of employee and parental support for the charter school. All public school
160
s
in a district may be converted to charter schools if at least 50% of the teachers in the
district sign a petition and alternative public school arrangements are made for
1 5 7 Establishment of Charter Schools, 1998 Virginia Laws Ch. 890 (S.B. 318) (West
1998).
158 Wis. Stat. Ann. § 118.40 (West Supp. 1997). According to § 118.40(2m), the school
board may contract with an individual or group to operate a charter school. However, the
school board is bound by the same requirements as any other applicant applying for a
charter.
159 Wis. Stat. Ann. § 118.40(1m)(b).
160 Wis. Stat. Ann. § 118.40(2).

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students not wishing to attend a charter school.161 Within 30 days of the public
hearing the school board must either accept or reject the petition for a charter
school.
162 If the petition is approved, it creates a contract between the person named
in the petition and the school board. The terms of the contract are the provisions of
the petition and any others agreed to between the parties. In any case, a charter term
(including renewal terms) may not exceed 5 years. An applicant may file an appeal
163
within thirty days of the denial to the state department of education. The department
then has 30 days to make a decision regarding the denial and the department's
decision is final.
164
Funding for the charter school is specified in the provisions of the petition.
Charter schools are subject to certain restrictions. Namely, charter schools can- not
charge tuition, they must be non-sectarian, and must not discriminate on the basis of
race, sex, religion, disability etc. The school board may refuse to renew or revoke a
charter if the board finds that the terms of the charter have been violated, the school
is fiscally mismanaged, students are failing to make progress, or the school has
violated an applicable law.165
WYOMING
Applicants wishing to open a charter school must file a petition with the district
board of trustees.
The petition must contain the signatures of at least 10% o
166
f
teachers and parents in the district or in the alternative 50% of both teachers and
parents of one school in the district. Wi
167
thin thirty days of receiving the petition, the
district board must hold a public hearing and the board must render its decision
within 60 days of receiving the petition. Charters may be granted or
168
renewed for
periods not exceeding 5 years. The petition should include, among other things, a
169
description of the school's educational program, the methods the school will use to
measure and improve pupil outcomes, the organizational structure of the school,
qualifications of the teachers, admission requirements and alternative public school
arrangements for students who do not want to attend or are not admitted to the
charter school.1 Wyoming law requires that full-time teachers in charter schools be
70
161 Wis. Stat. Ann. § 118.40(2)(b). Charter schools must give preference to pupils who
reside in the attendance area of the school, if the schools replaces a public school in whole
or in part. Wis. Stat. Ann. § 118.40(4).
162 Wis. Stat. Ann. § 118.40(2)(c).
163 Wis. Stat. Ann. § 118.40(3)(b).
164 Wis. Stat. Ann. § 118.40(2)(c).
165 Wis. Stat. Ann. § 118.40(5).
166 Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 21-3-201 - 207 (Michie 1997).
167 Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 21-3-203.
168 Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 21-3-203.
169 Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 21-3-204.
170 Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 21-3-203.

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certified by the state. Regar
171
ding admission policies, a charter school cannot charge
tuition, must give preference to a student residing in the attendance area of a
converted public school, and must not rely solely on academic ability for
admission.
172 A charter may be revoked if the charter school violates the terms of the
charter, is fiscally mismanaged or violates any applicable law. The district boar
173
d
of trustees should evaluate annually the performance of the charter schools in the
state.
171 Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 21-3-203.
172 Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 21-3-203(d).
173 Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 21-3-204.