|
LAW |
|
Year Passed |
2002; last amended in 2007.
|
|
Rank |
The weakest of the nation's 40 charter laws. |
|
Grade |
F |
|
GENERAL DATA |
|
|
• Considered "charter in name only," - pilot program status set to expire in 2011 |
|
MULTIPLE AUTHORIZERS - NO |
|
Approval |
State Board of Education, with school board's approval. |
|
Appeal |
None. |
|
NUMBER OF SCHOOLS ALLOWED |
|
Cap |
Yes. One per school district, 20 total, and law sunsets in 2011. |
|
OPERATIONAL AUTONOMY |
|
State |
Limited. Law does say charters are exempt, but in reality, they must comply with extensive regulations (paperwork, personnel policies, transport). Money may also be withheld. Virtual schools are not allowed. Management contracts with ESPs not permitted. |
|
Local |
No. Charters must comply with many local rules and regulations, including transportation of students, personnel, etc. |
|
Teacher Freedom |
No. Teachers are considered employees of the district. Teachers are required to participate in state's retirement program. |
|
EQUITY |
|
Student Funding |
• Funding is ignored in law, leaving it up to districts entirely. • Funds pass through district.
"A charter school shall be considered a part of the school district in which it is located for purposes of state school foundation aid pursuant to chapter 257." [Iowa Code § 256F.4] |
|
Facilities Funding |
None. |
