Charter Schools

Charter schools continue to gain popularity as an alternative to traditional public education. Although exempt from certain state and local regulations, charter schools must operate in accordance with their charter and meet the accountability standards and abide by the rules and policies established by their authorizers.
 
Best Best & Krieger LLP attorneys have advised school districts and county offices of education on all facets of charter school petitions, operations and managements since the enactment of the Charter Schools Act of 1992. Well-versed in charter law and experienced in representing clients before the regulatory agencies that govern charter schools and their operations, our education attorneys provide experienced advice and representation on all issues related to charter schools, including:  

• School board governance and administrative matters
• Regulatory and compliance-related matters
• Charter applications, petitions, revisions and renewals
• Drafting of resolutions and findings
• Proposition 39 facilities requests
• Development of memorandums of understanding
• Oversight responsibilities, fiscal monitoring and investigations
• Revocation proceedings
• Development of dependent charter schools
• Conversion and startup requirements
• Finance, acquisition, and construction of facilities  
• Appropriate monitoring procedures
• Labor and employment issues, including union-related matters
• Special education, Section 504 and disability accommodations
• Facilities management and safety issues
• Teacher and student discipline
• Best practices, policies and procedures

We provide guidance regarding all required legal procedures and negotiate agreements with charter schools, including facilities, operational and charter schools education agreements. Further, BB&K attorneys assist school districts and county offices of education in conducting investigations and compliance reviews of charter schools they oversee, and we help them establish and operate their own dependent charters to serve specific pupil populations.

BB&K education attorneys have also successfully represented clients in charter school audits, audit appeal proceedings, litigation and legislative initiatives.