On April 15, 2014, the Washington State Charter School Commission released its 2014 Request for Proposals (RFP) for the second round of charter school authorization this year. The previous RFP saw 18 non-profit organizations submitting 19 completed proposals by the deadline, resulting in the Commission authorizing seven schools – Spokane School District, as well, authorized one charter school. This current release seeks proposals for schools opening in Fall of 2015.
According to the Commission — they look forward to proposals from new, innovative non-profit organizations, as well as those who were encouraged to reapply during the last application process. The 2014 RFP seeks applicants who wish to embody the Commission’s mission, namely to create ‘…high quality schools that will significantly improve student outcomes, particularly for at-risk students.’
The 2014 RFP release initiates a six month process, concluding October 9 with the Commission’s decision to authorize charter school applicants. Along the way, applicants will submit a Notice of Intent to Apply by June 13, followed by a full proposal due July 15. From there, applicants will engage in in-person interviews in late August, 2014. The final step are public forums held in the first three weeks of September, allowing applicants to address the community their school is designed to serve.
To learn more about the 2014 RFP, please visit: http://www.governor.wa.gov/issues/education/commission/default.aspx.