New School Development

MAPSA helps applicant groups build a strong foundation for opening a quality charter school through coaching, technical assistance, networking and more. Quality development of a quality school is critical to your success. Below is an overview of the steps to starting a charter school. Each step is a live link, leading to additional resources and information to support you on your journey!

Steps to Start a Charter School

I. Exploration: Surveying the Scene and Laying the Groundwork

This phase includes exploring your reasons for choosing to start a charter school, gathering basic background information on charter schools in your state, and assembling a school design team and framework. Listed below are topics that are covered within this step.

• Investigate State Laws and Policies
• Charter School Authorizers
• Assemble a Core Founding Group and Access Experts
• Design a Comprehensive School Plan

II. Application: Drafting, Presenting, and Getting the Charter Approved

This phase includes writing and addressing the terms of an actual charter document and applying to an authorizer.  Below are key areas that this step covers.

• Drafting the Charter School Application (Phase I)
• Presenting and Getting the Charter Approved
• Drafting the Charter School Application (Phase II)
• Review Sample Charters and Charter School Contracts

III. Pre-Operations: Getting Ready

This phase follows the approval of the charter application and includes the actual process of developing the school. Below are pointers for navigating this phase.

• Develop a Detailed Plan and Time-line
• Develop Formal Operating Agreements 
• Establish the Formal Organization
• Recruit and Admit Students
• Formalize the Instructional Program
• Secure a Facility and Support Services

IV. Operations: Opening the Doors, Troubleshooting, and Making Improvements

This stage includes the actual opening of the charter school, with its inevitable unforeseen issues. It also includes establishing the culture of the school, clarifying the school's expectations and beliefs, and beginning to use data on student performance as the primary guide for school planning and policy-making.

• Open Enrollment  
• Marketing & Advertisement 
• Professional Development
• Obtaining Building Occupancy
• Educational Program Implementation 
• Charter School Contract
• Obtaining a District Code
• Supplemental Services
• Talent Acquisition & HR
• Student Information System
• Reporting and Compliance
• Data/Assessment Management (i.e. Orange Grove)