This bill revises the existing laws governing charter schools in Iowa, primarily by eliminating references to innovation zone schools, thereby focusing solely on charter schools. It establishes the state board of education as the exclusive authorizer of charter schools, detailing its responsibilities for monitoring performance and compliance. The bill also modifies the application and approval process, removing the deadline for school boards to consider charter school applications and stipulating that no new charter schools will be approved after July 1, 2021. Additionally, it introduces a five-year enforceable contract requirement for approved charter school applications, which must include a performance framework and operating agreement.

Further amendments enhance the governance and accountability of charter schools by mandating compliance with federal, state, and local laws, particularly regarding health and safety, and prohibiting discrimination in admissions. The bill also expands student participation in extracurricular activities at public schools for those enrolled in charter schools and requires public school districts to offer driver education courses to all students, including charter school attendees. By consolidating the charter school code and extending the term of charter school contracts from four to five years, the bill aims to streamline operations and ensure equitable access to educational resources for all students.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 29E.1, 232E.1, 256.7, 139A.8, 256E.1, 256E.2, 256E.4, 256E.5, 256E.6, 256E.7, 256E.8, 257.6, 256E.10, 256E.11, 256E.12, 256F.1, 256F.2, 256F.4, 256E.9, 256F.5, 256.145, 282.18, 280.36, 282.9, 257.9, 273.2, 273.1, 280.13A, 299A.1