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 key terms such as "at-risk student," "charter performance agreement," and "education service provider," establishing a framework for these schools as part of the state's public education system. Public charter schools will be governed by a board and must comply with specific operational and performance standards outlined in their charter performance agreements. The bill mandates that these schools provide educational programs that meet state standards and allows for the enrollment of all interested students, implementing a lottery system if demand exceeds capacity.

Additionally, the bill assigns responsibilities to the superintendent of public instruction, including the evaluation of charter applications, performance monitoring, and oversight. It requires the superintendent to report to legislative management on the progress of public charter schools within three years of the first school's approval. The bill emphasizes the independence of public charter schools from state and local laws, except for federal regulations, and establishes guidelines for the application process, ensuring transparency and conflict of interest disclosures. It also details the terms of charter performance agreements, including a five-year initial term, renewal processes, and conditions for closure, while outlining the responsibilities of governing boards and operational standards for public charter schools.