How Charter Schools Are Authorized and Evaluated
Public charter schools do not open simply because an idea exists or because there is interest in a new school option. They operate under one of the most structured and closely monitored approval processes in public education. Understanding how charter schools are authorized and evaluated is essential to understanding how accountability, transparency, and public trust are built into the charter model.
The Role of a Charter Authorizer
Every public charter school must be approved by a charter authorizer. Authorizers are state-approved entities responsible for reviewing applications, approving new schools, monitoring performance, and enforcing accountability throughout a school’s operation. In South Carolina, authorizers may include school districts or independent statewide authorizers.
The authorizer’s role is not to promote charter schools, but to protect students and the public interest. Authorizers evaluate whether a proposed charter school demonstrates the academic, organizational, and financial capacity required to operate responsibly as a public school.
The Charter Application Process
The authorization process begins with a comprehensive charter application. This application is not a simple form — it is a detailed, multi-section proposal that outlines how a proposed school would function across all aspects of operation.
A typical charter application includes:
- A clear educational mission and vision
- A detailed academic plan aligned with state standards
- Governance structure and board oversight plans
- Financial projections and budget controls
- Staffing plans and leadership qualifications
- Student enrollment, admissions, and services plans
- Policies for discipline, safety, and student support
- Evidence of community interest and need
Applicants must demonstrate not only what they intend to do, but how they will do it responsibly and sustainably.
Evaluation and Review
Once submitted, the application undergoes a formal evaluation process. Authorizers assemble review teams with expertise in education, finance, governance, and law. These reviewers assess the application against established criteria and standards.
The evaluation typically includes:
- Independent expert reviews
- Requests for clarification or additional documentation
- Interviews with the founding team and board
- Public comment opportunities
- Revisions or amendments to the proposal
This process can take several months and is designed to identify both strengths and weaknesses in a proposed school plan.
Approval, Conditional Approval, or Denial
At the conclusion of the evaluation, the authorizer may:
- Approve the application
- Approve it with conditions that must be met before opening
- Deny the application
Approval is never automatic. Many applications are denied or required to undergo significant revision. Conditional approvals require applicants to demonstrate readiness before a school is allowed to open.
The Charter Contract
If approved, the authorizer and school enter into a charter contract. This contract is a legally binding performance agreement that sets clear expectations for:
- Academic outcomes
- Financial management
- Governance and compliance
- Reporting and transparency
The charter contract defines how success will be measured and what happens if expectations are not met.
Ongoing Evaluation and Accountability
Authorization does not end once a school opens. Charter schools are subject to continuous oversight. Authorizers regularly review academic performance data, financial audits, enrollment practices, and compliance reports.
Charter schools must:
- Administer state assessments
- Submit annual reports
- Undergo financial audits
- Participate in site visits and performance reviews
Failure to meet expectations can result in corrective action, probation, non-renewal, or closure.
Renewal or Closure
Charter schools operate for a fixed term, often five years. At the end of the term, the authorizer conducts a comprehensive review to determine whether the school has met the standards outlined in its charter.
Schools that demonstrate strong performance may be renewed. Schools that fail to meet standards may be closed. This renewal process reinforces the principle that charter schools exist only as long as they deliver results for students and operate responsibly.
Why This Process Matters
The authorization and evaluation process exists to ensure that charter schools are not experiments without oversight. Instead, they are public institutions held to clear expectations, with real consequences tied to performance. This structure is designed to protect students, families, and public resources.
Where Community Charter School (CCS) Is in the Process
Community Charter School (CCS) is currently in the charter evaluation stage and is being reviewed through the Charter Institute at Erskine. As with all charter applicants, CCS must meet rigorous academic, financial, and governance standards before any approval is considered. No school may open until the evaluation process is complete and all authorizer requirements are satisfied.
Understanding how charter schools are authorized and evaluated helps the community assess proposed schools based on facts, process, and accountability — rather than assumptions.