Senate Bill 2241 passed the house and the senate last month. This bill requires public charter schools to be part of North Dakota’s public education system. Governor Kelly Armstrong states, “Expanding school choice is a win-win for North Dakota families and for our state’s workforce and long-term success. The public charter schools authorized by this bill can drive innovation, improve student outcomes and increase parent satisfaction” (https://www.governor.nd.gov/news/armstrong-signs-bill-creating-framework-establishing-public-charter-schools-north-dakota).
So, what is a charter school? It is a school that is within a district, but independent from the district and operates under a charter or contract. Created by teachers, parents, or community groups – the charter school receives public funding and has more flexibility with regard to curriculum, instructional methods, and calendars. However, because it is part of the state’s public education system, it must meet or exceed state academic and graduation requirements and be public or open to all students.
Traditional public and private schools, as well as, homeschool were the only options available to North Dakota families up until now. Emphasizing arts, theater, science, agriculture, you name it – each charter school could be radically different. I look forward to seeing all the new school choice options that become available. Our ND educational landscape just got more exciting!

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