The bill amends existing laws regarding charter schools in Louisiana, specifically focusing on the duration and renewal processes of charters. It changes the initial validity period of an approved school charter from four years to five years and establishes that charters may be renewed for periods ranging from three to ten years, contingent upon a thorough review of the school's operations and compliance. The bill also introduces new criteria for charter renewal, emphasizing academic performance and progress indices, and differentiating between various types of charter schools. Additionally, it allows for the extension of a charter contract term in cases where the state does not issue a performance score or in extraordinary circumstances.

Furthermore, the bill provides an alternative to revocation of a charter by allowing the chartering authority to reconstitute the governing body of the charter holder if certain violations occur. This includes material violations related to finances, accountability, and fiscal management. The chartering authority's actions must prioritize the best interests of the students and involve a public hearing. Lastly, the bill stipulates that charter operators with high-performing schools can open additional schools without a formal application, provided they notify the chartering authority in advance. The changes aim to enhance the oversight and accountability of charter schools while providing more flexibility for successful operators.

Statutes affected:
SB316 Original: 17:3992(A)(1), 17:3998(B)
SB316 Engrossed: 17:3992(A)(1), 17:3998(B)
SB316 Reengrossed: 17:3992(A)(1), 17:3998(B)
SB316 Enrolled: 17:3992(A)(1), 17:3998(B)
SB316 Act : 17:3992(A)(1), 17:3998(B)