What is a charter school quality review?

The charter school quality review is designed to evaluate the performance and quality of operating charter schools through an in-depth site visit and report of findings on the school’s performance. The review team evaluates the school through the lens of two broad questions: 1) Is the educational program a success? 2) Is the school a viable organization (i.e. fiscally solvent, with sound, compliant governance and operations)?

What information is evaluated?

The school quality review process assesses a charter school’s progress on the student and school performance goals listed in the charter. The school quality review addresses five major aspects of the school’s performance:

• Educational Program
• Governance and School Operations
• Student and Staff Issues
• Financial Management
• Operational Compliance

Who evaluates the school?

The review team includes experts in all key areas of charter school operations, including finance, educational program, personnel and governance. Reviewers will include CSDC staff and may include other outside experts or granting agency personnel where appropriate.

How often are schools reviewed?

CSDC recommends a minimum of three comprehensive school reviews in a five-year charter term. Reviews are most critical after the first year of operation and in the year of or prior to renewal. Note: With the enactment of Assembly Bill 1137, charter-granting agencies are now required to conduct annual site visits.

How are schools evaluated?

Schools are evaluated using a combination of quantitative data, written documentation, and direct, on-site observation and inquiry by the visiting team, such as:

• Student Performance Data (e.g. state assessments, portfolios, and graduation rates)
• Curriculum Planning and Instructional Design Tools (e.g. instructional delivery plans aligned to the school’s mission)
• Personnel and Governance Documents (e.g.personnel and board policies
• Financial Documents (e.g.annual audit reports)
• Health, Safety and Student Discipline Information (e.g. health and safety policies)

 For more information about the School Quality Review Process or CSDC’s other Charter School Accountability Services, please contact CSDC at (916) 278-6069 or CSDC@chartercenter.org.