The bill seeks to enhance the charter school framework in New Jersey by establishing new charter school authorizers, which can include public institutions of higher education and local boards of education. It mandates the Commissioner of Education to create an application process for these authorizers and outlines their responsibilities, such as soliciting and evaluating charter applications, conducting oversight, and ensuring public accountability through annual reporting. Significant changes include clarifying that charter schools will operate under charters granted by authorizers rather than directly by the commissioner, and emphasizing flexibility in operations, particularly regarding special education and teacher certification.

Additionally, the bill amends existing legal language to streamline the application process for charter schools, allowing for the consolidation of charter schools without the previous requirement for random student transfers. It introduces new requirements for charter applications, such as detailing the designated enrollment region and providing a sworn statement regarding the physical facility, while removing the need for community group involvement information. The bill also clarifies admission policies, expands the authority of charter school boards, and adjusts financial responsibilities for school districts towards charter schools, including transportation for students. Overall, the bill aims to promote accountability and operational flexibility while expanding educational options for students in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:36A-2, 18A:36A-3, 18A:36A-4, 18A:36A-5, 18A:36A-7, 18A:36A-8, 18A:36A-9, 18A:36A-10, 18A:36A-11, 18A:36A-12, 18A:36A-13, 18A:36A-14, 18A:36A-16, 18A:36A-17, 18A:36A-17.1, 18A:36A-18