6300.00 | Charter Schools Definition

A charter school is a public, non-religious, publicly funded school that is accountable for the provisions set forth in its charter petition and its contract as approved by the local Board of Trustees. The charter school shall operate independently within the boundaries of the District, and it shall be responsible for its own operation both fiscal and programmatic, including, but not limited to, personnel matters, preparation of a budget, and contracted services. A charter school shall be considered a public school for all purposes. (6-24-08)

A charter school may be formed by creating a new school or converting an existing public school to charter status. The District cannot authorize the conversion of any private or parochial school to a charter school. A charter school cannot be operated for profit. (2-27-01)

A charter school shall be subject to all federal and state laws including, but not limited to, laws concerning discrimination per Board Policy 1120.00. A charter school is exempt from the rules of the State Board of Education except for the requirements of teacher certification, accreditation and qualifications for attendance at an alternative school, and State Board of Education 08.02.04 - Rules Governing Public Charter Schools. (6-24-08)

Involvement with a charter school by any student, parent/guardian, or employee must be voluntary. Enrollment must be open to any student who resides within the District. Nonresident students may be admitted to a charter school, but priority must be given to admission of resident students. A charter school shall not charge tuition or fees except those fees normally charged by other public schools. (2-27-01)

A charter school must accomplish any of the following:

  1. Improve student learning;
  2. Increase learning opportunities for all students, with special emphasis on expanded learning experiences for students;
  3. Include the use of different and innovative teaching methods;
  4. Utilize virtual distance learning and on-line learning;
  5. Create new professional opportunities for teachers; including the opportunity to be responsible for the learning program at the school site;
  6. Provide parents and students with expanded choices in the types of educational opportunities that are available within the public school system;
  7. Hold the schools established under this chapter accountable for meeting measurable student educational standards. [IC 33-5202] (6-24-08)