How To Start a Charter School DC

Charter schools are typically started under the guidance of a particular school district. In most cases, charter schools are added to the existing roster of schools within a district and may focus on reaching children who are performing at or below state curriculum standards. The planning and implementation of a charter school can take several months, and even years, before the school is actually ready to open its doors to students.

1. Develop a Vision-In order to start a charter school, a clear vision or mission statement must be developed. While of course this vision must have the education of children at its heart, it must also give a clear view of what faculty, staff, parents and the community can expect once it begins the process of educating children. This vision should also provide a basis for decision-making within the district.
   
2. Charter Applicant Expertise-Because charter schools branch out from the typical school environment, high expectations of expertise must be required by all involved. Not only should these expectations be satisfied on a personal level, but they must also fulfill any and all state regulations, laws and requirements. This high level of expertise must be applied to the superintendent, school board members, administration, faculty and staff.
   
3. Develop a Committee-Those who carry the vision of a charter school must develop a committee that can implement and carry out those ideas and beliefs. The committee should represent a cross-section of everyone involved in the creation of a charter school, including the state department, local school district officials, administration, faculty, politicians, concerned citizens, parents and even students. The committee should understand and agree overall with the mission or vision of the charter school. This committee should be willing to meet many times over a set period as the process of the charter school continues.
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Author: Susie McGee