MEMBERS ONLY

The relationship between a charter school and its authorizer is contractual. A quality authorizer executes a performance contract with each school it authorizes. This contract—a charter—is a legally binding agreement that permits the school to operate and articulates the rights and responsibilities of each party regarding school autonomy, funding, administration and oversight, outcomes, measures for evaluating success or failure, performance consequences, and other material terms. A well-drafted charter contract reduces misunderstandings and helps guide a school and its authorizer through the course of their relationship. A strong contract is in the interest of schools, authorizers, students and families, and the public.

 

This course introduces the critical elements of an effective charter school performance contract, such as clearly stated rights and responsibilities and explicit performance standards and explains why the charter contract is an critical document, separate from the charter application. Included with the course is NACSA's Core Charter School Contract and Guidance which authorizers can customize for their local context.

 

See also:

Core Resource: Core Charter School Contract