The charter renewal process is the primary method to ensure that schools are meeting performance expectations. As an authorizer, developing and implementing a clearly defined, rigorous, and transparent renewal process is essential for maintaining high quality charter schools.
In this session, experienced authorizer representatives will share best practices for designing and implementing charter renewal processes that emphasize and reward high performance.
Topics will include:- Establishing clear renewal criteria grounded in comprehensive performance expectations (academic, financial, compliance, etc.) - Creating a fair evaluation process with clear timelines, evidence requirements, schedules for site visits, etc. - Making data-driven renewal decisions - Communicating decisions clearly to all stakeholders
The partnership between Authorizer and Charter School hinges on clear communication and shared goals. One way to capture this is through an effective strategic plan. Attend this session to learn about how one district authorizer partnered with WRCCS and the charter school Governance Council to develop a continuous improvement plan that is a beacon for charter school growth. We will explain our process and you will hear from three perspectives: the district superintendent, the district business manager, and the director of the charter school. We will also highlight the structures we have put in place for accountability and support. This fast-paced session will include opportunities for networking and collaborating with others who are in the process of developing a strategic plan.
Charter school authorizing is a powerful tool for responding to local educational gaps and delivering innovative, high-quality public school options tailored to the unique needs of students and families in your community. In this session, WRCCS Director Sarah Hackett will explore how authorizers can position themselves as proactive problem solvers of issues facing the community. Topics will include:
Assessing local demographic trends and educational needs to inform charter development and approval
Incorporating community engagement and stakeholder input throughout the process - from new school approval to ongoing oversight and renewal
Balancing innovation and accountability to ensure that schools effectively meet the needs of the community
Sarah Hackett is the Director of the Wisconsin Resource Center for Charter Schools at CESA 9. She earned a PhD from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in Curriculum and Instruction. She is a graduate of the rural public school system in Wautoma, Wisconsin, and the small but mighty... Read More →
Key responsibilities of charter school authorizers include upholding high standards of academic performance, legal compliance, and fiscal responsibility. When charter schools do not meet standards in any of these areas, implementing corrective actions is essential to promote student achievement, maintain the trust of families and the community, and foster school improvement without immediately resorting to revocation of the charter.
In this session, participants will learn best practices and practical strategies for implementing corrective actions and navigating the complex process of guiding schools into compliance. Topics will include:- Developing and utilizing systems to monitor school performance and compliance- Using and implementing systems such as Epicenter to ensure required elements are submitted by the charter.- Creating clear and fair corrective action plans in collaboration with governance boards and school leaders- Communicating clearly and transparently with all relevant stakeholders throughout the corrective action process
I've been an educator for 32 years working as a high school English teacher, school counselor and district-level administrator. I worked closely with charter schools for about 17 years and led charter offices for the last 13 years. I have knowledge and experience with instrumentality... Read More →
