Washington’s charter public schools serve students across diverse communities statewide. Each school is approved only after a rigorous review process that includes a notice of intent, a detailed application, a capacity interview, and in‑depth questioning from the Commission. As public schools, charter public schools are tuition‑free, publicly funded, staffed by certified teachers, and held to the same state and federal standards as all public schools.
What Are Charter Public Schools?
Charter public schools are tuition‑free, publicly funded schools that serve students across Washington State. They are staffed by certified teachers and held to the same state and federal standards as all public schools.
Each school is approved only after a rigorous review process that includes:
A Notice of Intent
A Detailed Application
A Capacity Interview
In-depth review from the Commission
Only applicants who demonstrate strong academic, financial, and organizational plans are authorized to open.
Where Are Washington’s Charter Public Schools?
Washington currently has 15 charter public schools serving students from kindergarten through high school.
How the Commission Oversees Schools
The Commission monitors each school’s performance through three frameworks:
- Academic Performance
- Financial Health
- Organizational Compliance
This ensures every school remains accountable and continues to meet high standards for students and families.
School Growth & Renewal
- Expansion
- Existing charter public schools may apply to expand their grade levels or enrollment.
- Renewal
- Schools nearing the end of their charter term may apply for renewal to continue operating.
- New Charter Public Schools
- There is currently no open application window for new charter public schools. When a future window opens, information will be posted here.
