Bill > A07141

This bill relates to the establishment, organization, and administration of charter schools, introducing several significant changes to their operation and oversight. The legislation mandates more rigorous standards for charter school performance, enrollment, suspension practices, and governance. Key provisions include requiring charter schools to maintain enrollment and suspension rates similar to their local school districts, implementing detailed suspension procedures that protect student rights, and mandating that half of a charter school's board must be parents or guardians of enrolled students within three years. The bill also strengthens transparency requirements by requiring charter schools to post their charters, disciplinary policies, and meeting information publicly, and establishes an ombudsperson to support and investigate parent complaints. Additionally, the bill gives the charter entity or board of regents more power to terminate a charter if schools fail to meet academic, enrollment, or administrative standards. Financial and performance audits are expanded, with specific requirements for reporting student demographics, suspensions, and reasons for student withdrawals. The bill aims to increase accountability, parental involvement, and ensure charter schools serve diverse student populations effectively.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7141