In addition to creating a model application package and a rubric that is updated to address emerging concerns, CACSA offers a pool of expert charter application reviewers. CACSA pays reviewers a modest stipend, so there is no cost to districts and they can be quickly incorporated into the district’s charter review. Through the CACSA Expert Pool, districts are able to access experienced authorizers and subject matter experts that match their needs for a particular application, leading to rigorous and appropriate reviews of charter applications.
CCAP’s mission is to “advance quality public education for all students by providing professionals with the support, resources, and collective voice necessary to foster high-performing, fiscally sound, autonomous, and accountable charter schools that strengthen California’s public education system as a whole.” CCAP diverse efforts have included developing toolkits for authorizers, including processes for reviewing charter petitions, preparing annual reports on charter school performance, conducting school site visits, and planning charter renewals. CCAP also has issued a report of recommendations on preventing fraud in charter schools and the larger public education system and currently is conducting a study of core authorizing practices and the resource allocations needed to implement them consistently. In addition, for local authorizers who need more than resources, information, networking, and training but more direct supports, even of a transitional nature, CCAP is able to provide consulting services.
A total of 31 districts who oversee more than 95% of Florida's charter schools participated in the 4-day virtual summit and 21 district staffers who are new to their authorizing role attended bootcamp. Presenters from National Association of Charter School Authorizers (NACSA), WestEd, Center for Learning Equity, Building Hope, Florida Department of Ed, Florida Special Education Collaborative, National Network for District Authorizers (NN4DA), and the Florida School Board Association made this inaugural event a huge success.
