North Dakota establishes framework for charter schools

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) - Charter schools are now legal in North Dakota, which could provide more school choice across the state.

Governor Kelly Armstrong held a signing ceremony Wednesday, establishing the framework for charters. They are specialized versions of public schools, operating with more flexible governance, curriculum and teaching methods. They cannot provide any religion-based curriculum.

Supporters say it’s a pro-parent bill that will provide more specialized choices in education.

“It is landmark legislation that will shift the way public education is delivered to students,” said Lisa Grover with the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools.

While some officials are not against the concept, Aimee Copas with the North Dakota Council of Educational Leaders says there are concerns about how charters could expand the statewide teacher shortage.

“If we see another school come in, I’m not sure where they’re going to get teachers to staff these schools, so I think this is going to be something that can only be staffed in an urban center. I’m not sure how in the world they would staff it anywhere rural in our state,” said Copas.

Copas also says career academies and career and technical education centers are already showing how existing public schools are providing specialized learning.

Grover says she heard there are already more than five individuals and groups calling about starting the application process with the Department of Public Instruction. She says she predicts a charter school could open by next fall.

Charters receive state funding for students, but it would not be used towards the construction of facilities or maintenance.

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