New Charter Applications
- Intended to improve achievement and educational outcomes of students with identified disabilities or other specialized learning needs;
- Intended to serve a diverse student population, including students who may be considered at-risk of educational failure;
- Intended to provide educational option(s) not otherwise currently available at a sufficient level to meet district programming needs.
For applications beginning in 2025, a charter applicant must file its application with the district during the period beginning February 1 and ending April 1, eighteen months before the charter school is set to open. The application process should follow guidelines explained in District Policy 1600 - Charter Schools.
Timeline and Process of a New Charter Application:
1. The letter of intent to apply is requested by January 31 and may be submitted to the Office of Charter Partnerships.
2. Attend a New Charter Application Orientation with the Office of Charter Partnerships, prior to submitting the New Charter Application. While this step is not required, it is strongly suggested.
3. Submit the New Charter Application between February 1-April 1. A completion check will be conducted within fifteen days of receipt of the application. If the application is incomplete, the applicant has fifteen days to provide missing information or withdraw the application.
4. When the application is deemed complete, the Superintendent will appoint an accountability committee (facilitated by the Director of Charter Partnerships), called the Charter Application Review Committee. This committee will review the application.
5. The Adams 12 Five Star Schools Board of Education will schedule two meetings to allow for public comment and information sharing. At the first meeting, the applicant will present to the Board. The second meeting will include a question-and-answer opportunity from the Board to the applicant. The applicant may also be required to participate in capacity interviews with district staff and the Charter Application Review Committee.
6. The Adams 12 Five Star Schools Board of Education will act on the application by resolution at a Board meeting no later than June 30.
7. If the school is approved, all contract negotiations shall be concluded within 90 days of the resolution or by September 30, whichever is later.
8. A newly approved charter school will open in the fall of the school year following the date of the charter approval.