Charter schools are free, public, and open to all. They provide families with another option within the public school system that specifically prioritizes flexibility and autonomy to meet community needs.
In Michigan, charter schools can only launch and operate if they have a contract with an authorizer. This page offers more details into the basics of authorizing and GVSU's role as an authorizer.
What is a charter school authorizer?
Authorizers are the institutions responsible for holding charter public schools accountable by overseeing school performance, legal compliance, and financial stability.
In Michigan, authorizers can be a public university, community college, intermediate school district, or a local traditional school district.
What are the core principles of authorizing?
Authorizers around the nation strive to fundamentally offer communities:
Access to high-quality public school options for all students
Autonomy for schools to offer educational models that meet the needs of their students
Accountability for schools in meeting high expectations and fulfilling obligations to students, parents, and taxpayers
What do authorizers monitor?
Authorizers are responsible for the following activities:
Evaluating applications for new charter schools
Setting expectations and overseeing school academic, operational, and fiscal performance
Vetting and appointing charter school board members
Determining if a charter school has the capacity to continue serving students
What is GVSU's approach to authorizing?
The GVSU DEISS seeks to strategically connect learners, education practitioners, and community members with the University to create equitable educational pathways, strengthen educational outcomes, inspire innovation, and foster lifelong achievement.