NC charter school application process, suggested best practices
Key for North Carolina is your ability to do what you say and are you able to handle the funding responsibilities. Many charter schools have closed because of fiscal malfeasance and children were put at risk. Therefore, I submit the following suggested best practices to consider before embarking into charterland:
1. Find at least three committed people who really want to make it happen.
2. Start the proposed board conversations and research at least six months before the application process begins. The initial board should commit to meeting at least every two weeks.
3. Contact successful charters your local county, if any for advice.
4. Review previous applications available on the NCDPI website for guidance not plagiarism.
5. Attend any trainings and webinars that are offered to guide you through the process. Review the materials often. Ask questions.
6. Yes, cross your "t's" and dot your "i's" is key.
7. Invest in Adobe Acrobat XI to assemble your required appendices.
8. Beware of vendors who are only after your education budget.
9. Finally, get local parent and community support for your proposal. You must show there is a need and that your proposed enrollment really exists.
The process of creating a charter school in North Carolina is a journey of commitment and some sleepless nights. The application includes creating an employee handbook, student handbook, proposed board by-laws and other documents along with the education plan of the charter. It is extremely important to know the community you are proposing to serve. Remember you are becoming a "Board of Education" and must report to the state of North Carolina.
These steps are only to advise and inform you in good faith. I do not work for NC Department of Public Instruction and have no affiliation with the Charter School office of North Carolina.
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