Bill > S4713

This bill establishes various requirements for charter schools, their boards of trustees, and organizations that manage them. It clarifies definitions for "charter management organization" (a non-profit managing charter schools) and "education management organization" (a for-profit managing charter schools). The bill amends existing laws to enhance transparency by requiring charter schools to post more information online, including contracts with management organizations and plain-language budget summaries. It also introduces new requirements for charter school applications, such as demonstrating a need not met by existing schools, and for charter school locations, prohibiting out-of-state operations and primarily online instruction. The bill also modifies rules regarding charter renewal periods, allowing for longer renewals for high-performing schools, and outlines conditions under which a charter school can be placed on probationary status or have its charter revoked. Additionally, it sets new qualifications for charter school board members, requiring legal, fiscal, educational, or governance experience, and mandates that a minimum percentage of board members reside or are employed within the school's district or region. The bill also prohibits non-disclosure agreements and restrictive covenants for charter school employees and requires public notice and hearings for contract changes with lead persons, school business administrators, and management organizations. Finally, it mandates that charter management organizations and education management organizations comply with ownership disclosure requirements.