Free Charter School Contract Template
Charter School Contract
This Charter School Contract ("Contract") is made and entered into on this [Date] day of [Month], 2050, by and between:
[Your Company Name], located at [Your Company Address], ("Charter School"), and [Authorizing Body], located at [Authorizing Body Address], ("Authorizer").
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the Charter School is established as a public charter school under the laws of the state of [State];
WHEREAS, the Authorizer is empowered to authorize and oversee charter schools within the state of [State];
WHEREAS, the Charter School desires to operate a public charter school and the Authorizer is willing to authorize the Charter School to operate under the terms and conditions set forth herein;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and promises herein contained, the parties hereto agree as follows:
I. Term of the Contract
1.1 Effective Date
This Contract shall commence on [Start Date] and shall remain in effect for a period of [Number] years, unless terminated earlier in accordance with the provisions of this Contract.
1.2 Renewal
This Contract may be renewed for additional terms upon mutual written agreement of the parties, provided that the Charter School has met the performance standards and other requirements set forth in this Contract.
1.3 Termination
Either party may terminate this Contract with sixty (60) days' written notice to the other party. The Authorizer may terminate this Contract immediately if the Charter School fails to comply with the terms of this Contract or applicable laws and regulations.
II. Governance
2.1 Board of Directors
The Charter School shall be governed by a Board of Directors ("Board") in accordance with its bylaws. The Board shall be responsible for the overall management and operation of the Charter School.
2.2 Meetings
The Board shall hold regular meetings in accordance with the state’s open meetings laws. All meetings shall be open to the public, and notice of meetings shall be provided in accordance with applicable laws and the Charter School's bylaws.
2.3 Responsibilities
The Board shall be responsible for:
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Establishing policies and procedures for the Charter School;
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Approving the annual budget and monitoring the Charter School's financial performance;
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Hiring, evaluating, and, if necessary, dismissing the Charter School's executive director or principal;
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Ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations;
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Ensuring the Charter School meets the performance standards set forth in this Contract.
III. Educational Program
3.1 Curriculum
The Charter School shall implement a curriculum that meets or exceeds state standards and aligns with the Charter School's mission and vision. The curriculum shall be designed to promote academic excellence and prepare students for success in college and career.
3.2 Instructional Methods
The Charter School shall employ instructional methods that are research-based and proven to be effective in promoting student learning. The Charter School shall provide professional development to teachers to ensure they are equipped to deliver high-quality instruction.
3.3 Assessment
The Charter School shall administer state-mandated assessments and other assessments as necessary to measure student progress and achievement. The Charter School shall use assessment data to inform instruction and improve student outcomes.
3.4 Special Education
The Charter School shall provide special education services in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and other applicable laws. The Charter School shall develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for eligible students and ensure they receive the necessary accommodations and support.
IV. Student Enrollment
4.1 Enrollment Policy
The Charter School shall adopt an enrollment policy that complies with state laws and regulations. The enrollment policy shall be non-discriminatory and open to all eligible students.
4.2 Enrollment Procedures
The Charter School shall implement fair and transparent enrollment procedures. If the number of applicants exceeds the Charter School's capacity, a lottery shall be conducted to determine enrollment.
4.3 Student Records
The Charter School shall maintain accurate and up-to-date records for all enrolled students. Student records shall be maintained in accordance with state and federal privacy laws.
V. Personnel
5.1 Hiring and Qualifications
The Charter School shall hire qualified personnel who meet the requirements set forth by the state and the Charter School's policies. Teachers shall hold valid state teaching certificates or meet alternative certification requirements as approved by the state.
5.2 Professional Development
The Charter School shall provide ongoing professional development opportunities for its staff. Professional development shall be aligned with the Charter School's educational program and designed to improve instructional practices and student outcomes.
5.3 Evaluation
The Charter School shall implement a staff evaluation system that includes regular performance reviews. Evaluations shall be based on multiple measures, including student performance, classroom observations, and professional responsibilities.
5.4 Employment Policies
The Charter School shall adopt employment policies that comply with state and federal laws. Employment policies shall include provisions for hiring, dismissal, employee rights, and grievances.
VI. Financial Management
6.1 Budget
The Charter School shall develop an annual budget that reflects its educational priorities and ensures financial stability. The budget shall be approved by the Board and submitted to the Authorizer as required by state law.
6.2 Financial Controls
The Charter School shall implement strong financial controls to ensure the proper use of funds. Financial controls shall include procedures for budgeting, accounting, and reporting.
6.3 Audits
The Charter School shall undergo an annual independent audit conducted by a certified public accountant. The audit shall be conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards and submitted to the Authorizer.
6.4 Fundraising
The Charter School may engage in fundraising activities to supplement its budget. Fundraising activities shall be conducted in compliance with state and federal laws and shall not interfere with the Charter School's educational program.
VII. Facilities
7.1 Location
The Charter School shall operate at the following location(s): [School Address(es)]. Any change in location shall require the prior written approval of the Authorizer.
7.2 Safety
The Charter School shall maintain safe and secure facilities. The Charter School shall develop and implement a safety plan that includes procedures for emergency preparedness, response, and recovery.
7.3 Maintenance
The Charter School shall ensure its facilities are well-maintained and comply with all applicable health and safety regulations. Regular inspections and maintenance shall be conducted to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment.
VIII. Compliance and Accountability
8.1 Compliance with Laws
The Charter School shall comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. This includes, but is not limited to, laws related to education, health and safety, employment, and non-discrimination.
8.2 Performance Standards
The Charter School shall meet the performance standards set forth in this Contract. These standards shall include academic achievement, financial management, organizational stability, and compliance with laws and regulations.
8.3 Reporting
The Charter School shall submit regular reports to the Authorizer as required by this Contract and applicable laws. Reports shall include, but are not limited to, academic performance, financial status, and compliance with laws and regulations.
8.4 Monitoring and Oversight
The Authorizer shall have the right to monitor and oversee the Charter School's operations. The Charter School shall provide access to its records and facilities for monitoring and oversight purposes.
IX. Renewal and Revocation
9.1 Renewal
The Charter School may apply for renewal of this Contract by submitting a renewal application to the Authorizer. The renewal application shall be submitted at least six (6) months prior to the expiration of this Contract.
9.2 Revocation
The Authorizer may revoke this Contract if the Charter School fails to meet the performance standards set forth in this Contract, violates applicable laws or regulations, or breaches any provision of this Contract. The Authorizer shall provide the Charter School with written notice of the grounds for revocation and an opportunity to respond.
X. Miscellaneous
10.1 Entire Agreement
This Contract constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, whether written or oral, relating to the subject matter hereof.
10.2 Amendments
This Contract may be amended only by a written agreement signed by both parties.
10.3 Governing Law
This Contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the state of [State], without regard to its conflicts of law principles.
10.4 Dispute Resolution
In the event of any dispute arising out of or relating to this Contract, the parties shall first attempt to resolve the dispute through good faith negotiations. If the dispute cannot be resolved through negotiation, the parties agree to submit the dispute to mediation before resorting to arbitration or litigation.
10.5 Assignment
The Charter School shall not assign or subcontract its rights or obligations under this Contract without the prior written consent of the Authorizer.
10.6 Notices
Any notice required or permitted to be given under this Contract shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been given when delivered in person or sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the addresses set forth above.
10.7 Severability
If any provision of this Contract is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.
10.8 Waiver
The waiver by either party of any breach or default under this Contract shall not constitute a waiver of any subsequent breach or default.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Charter School Contract as of the day and year first above written.
[Your Company Name]
By:
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
Email: [Your Email]
Phone: [Your Company Number]
[Authorizing Body]
By:
[Authorizer's Name]
[Authorizer's Position]
Email: [Authorizer's Email]
Phone: [Authorizer's Phone Number]
