This bill amends the Charter School Program Act of 1995 to introduce new requirements regarding charter school admissions, enrollment, reporting, and athletics. Key provisions include a mandate for charter schools to make student application materials available in the seven most common non-English languages in their district and a prohibition against establishing criteria to evaluate prospective students or imposing qualifications for enrollment on students selected through a random selection process. Additionally, the bill allows charter schools to enroll non-resident students if space permits and with the approval of the Commissioner of Education, who will evaluate criteria related to fiscal impact, diversity, and educational quality.

The bill also establishes the role of a student placement liaison in public schools and charter schools, responsible for coordinating student transitions and maintaining enrollment data. Charter schools are required to report annually on student exits, including reasons for leaving and subsequent placements, while ensuring student privacy. Furthermore, charter schools offering interscholastic athletics must join a voluntary association that regulates student activities, and specific requirements are set for non-resident students wishing to participate in athletics. The bill aims to enhance transparency and inclusivity in charter school operations while ensuring compliance with educational standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:36A-7, 18A:36A-8, 18A:36A-9