Charter School Authorizing

Charter school authorizers are essential to the success of charter schools in our state. Volunteers of America’s Charter School Authorizing program is dedicated to authorizing high-quality schools that invest in student service, learning, and achievement. In addition to providing oversight of the schools' operations, finances, and educational outcomes, we also set contractual goals and evaluate schools' progress toward meeting those expectations.

Beyond its work of authorizing great Minnesota charter schools, our Charter School Authorizing program is helping to build a culture of excellence in charter schools across the country. We engage in smart, proactive relationships based on transparency, experience, and respect that add value to the schools with which we work.

Every school is unique, which is why we never use a one-size-fits-all approach. While our work is grounded in providing expanded educational opportunities to students and families, our Charter School Authorizing program works hard to build strong and supportive relationships with schools. We respect our relationship to each of our schools and work to support their needs while always honoring their independence.

Service benefits include:

• Support to get started – Helping schools as they navigate the complex process of developing their learning program, reaching out to students, securing facilities, and creating strong financial management practices and governance
• Cooperative oversight – Providing for accountability while preserving charter school autonomy
• Foster and recognition of success – Encouraging charter school administrators to reach for excellence and we recognize those who achieve it