CS Panel Becomes Authorizer Under New Law

New law gives charter schools more autonomy to pursue innovation

LINK>> Charter School Review Panel Agendas and Minutes

Governor Lingle signed SB603 CD1 into law on June 1, 2007, making it Act 115 of the 2007 Legislative session.

Act 115 expands the powers and duties of the Charter School Review Panel, redefines the relationship between the charter schools and the Board of Education, and clarifies the conditions of employment for the CSAO Executive Director.

Under this act, the Charter School Review Panel:

• Serves as the charter school authorizer
• Reviews, approves or denies applications for new charters
• Reviews, approves or denies significant changes to the detailed implementation plans (DIPs) for established charters
• Appoints and evaluates the executive director of the CSAO
• Is subject to Chapter 92 (the Sunshine Law)

The Board of Education:

• Appoints the panel members
• Acts as the appeals body for panel decisions to deny charter applications or significant changes to DIPs
• Continues to formulate statewide educational policy [HRS 302A-1101(a)]

Read more

DOWNLOAD>> Full text of Act 115/SB 603 CD1
DOWNLOAD>> Governor's Message No. 873
DOWNLOAD>> FAQ on SB603 CD1
LINK>> Powers broaden for charter school review panel, The Honolulu Advertiser, June 4, 2007