Charter School Renewals 

Renewal is a critical checkpoint in the life of a charter public school.  In exchange for the flexibility and autonomy provided, charter schools are held accountable for meeting high performance expectations.  At the end of each charter school term, the LAUSD, as the charter authorizer, essentially must pause to assess whether the school is in fact fulfilling the promises to the students, parents, and community, set forth in the school’s existing charter and applicable law; and whether the charter school will likely provide a successful educational program under the proposed renewal petition.

During the final year of its current charter term, a charter school that wishes to continue operations applies for renewal.  The LAUSD’s renewal process entails a comprehensive review and evaluation of the charter school’s record of performance as well as its renewal petition application. Renewals of charters are governed by the Charter Schools Act, which sets forth the process, standards, and timelines for renewal of charter school petitions.  The LAUSD Board of Education may grant one or more subsequent renewals of charters it has authorized, for a specified term length in accordance with the law. 

Information for current charter school operators is organized under the following sections: