This bill introduces a new chapter in Title 15.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, dedicated to the establishment and regulation of public charter schools. It defines essential terms such as "at-risk student," "charter performance agreement," and "public charter school," while outlining the governance and operational frameworks for these institutions. Public charter schools will operate within the state's public education system, enjoying autonomy in budgeting, curriculum, and operations, but will remain accountable to a governing board and the superintendent of public instruction. The bill mandates adherence to state performance standards and establishes enrollment guidelines, including a lottery system for oversubscribed schools.

Furthermore, the bill delineates the responsibilities of the superintendent of public instruction, which include evaluating charter applications, monitoring school performance, and providing oversight. It requires the superintendent to report to the legislative management on the progress of public charter schools within three years of the first charter's approval. The legislation also emphasizes that public charter schools must not engage in religious practices, charge tuition (with certain exceptions), and must operate as in-person institutions, prohibiting online education as the primary mode of instruction. Additionally, it establishes a framework for charter performance agreements, detailing the terms, monitoring processes, and compliance requirements, including provisions for closure and independent audits to ensure financial accountability.