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New board members take the Oath of Office

Charter public school boards are composed of people who volunteer their time and expertise to develop better outcomes for the children in their community. It can be a powerfully rewarding experience.

Becoming a charter school board member

Interested in serving on a board? Fantastic! 

To become a charter public school board member, a candidate must:

  1. Be nominated by a charter school board
  2. Interview with a representative of the GVSU DEISS
  3. Complete an application for board service 
  4. Successfully pass a background check and verify citizenship
  5. Be approved for appointment by the GVSU Board of Trustees
  6. Receive official Term Letter and new board member training modules
  7. Take the public oath of office

Detailed descriptions for each step are available on the Board Member Application Process Overview.

Submit an Application

When ready, please complete this form to apply to join a board, whether you are applying as a new board member or to renew your service.    

Charter School Board Member Application

Questions about the application can be sent to Gretchen LaHaie at [email protected].

Conflict of Interest Form

All board members are required to annually disclose any potential conflicts of interest that may arise due to their board service.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form

Supporting Documents

The following documents may be of additional assistance to applicants and GVSU DEISS staff during the application process:

Page last modified June 1, 2026