October 2025 Quarterly Training Resources

Managing Charter School Closure Responsibly

The October 2025 CASI Quarterly Training covered the legal framework for closure and non-renewal, as well as communication strategies and transition protocols.

Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is provided as a reference only. Charter schools and chartering authorities are encouraged to review the laws and regulations and consult with their own legal counsel regarding the application to their specific situations.

Live Video Recording

CASI Quarterly Training, October 2025 (Video; 1:21:01) (Note: Portions of the video have been edited for length and content.)

Charter School Closures

Charter school closure is one of the most challenging responsibilities for authorizers. Every charter closure affects real students, real families, real communities. The authorizers who are effective in these situations are those who see closure not as an ending, but as an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to student welfare and responsible governance.

California Charter Authorizing Professionals (CCAP), Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE), San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD), and Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) are providing guidance and resources to assist in turning one of authorizing's most difficult responsibilities into an opportunity for truly accountable oversight.

Navigate the Legal Framework

• Apply California Education Code and California Code of Regulations systematically throughout closure processes.
• Understand your authority and obligations at each stage of the closure process.
• Document decisions and communications to protect both students and your organization.

Lead with Compassion

• Craft transparent communication strategies that maintain family trust during uncertainty.
• Coordinate with receiving schools to ensure smooth student transitions.
• Support charter school staff and leadership through emotionally difficult closures.

Ensure Financial Accountability

• Oversee the settlement of financial obligations.
• Oversee the transfer of school resources/assets.
• Protect public funds while supporting orderly closure operations.

Closure Resources

• California Charter Authorizing Professionals (CCAP) Charter School Closure Protocol (PDF)
• SDUSD Sample Closure Checklist
• LACOE Closure Checklist
• SCCOE Closure Checklist
• SDUSD Sample Charter School Closing Financial Responsibilities
• SDUSD Sample Board Resolution

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