Photo Credit: Sam Balye on Unsplash
2025 is already proving to be a pivotal year for the charter school movement.
New legislation at both the state and federal levels has been introduced and has the potential to affect the way charter schools operate if enacted into law. The end result could have significant implications for educators, parents and stakeholders across the charter school sector.
Are changes coming to your state? We’ve compiled an overview of the most recent legislative developments across various states and highlights key aspects that are essential for understanding the evolving landscape of charters and education at large.
U.S. Department of Education Reduces Oversight in Charter Programs
The U.S. Department of Education announced on Jan. 31 a reduction in oversight concerning state Charter School Program (CSP) grant awards. This policy change removes previous requirements for the Secretary of Education to review how states approve certain entities' authorization of charter schools. As a result, this would return more control to state authorities.
“The Department is committed to putting students first by expanding access to high-quality educational options and ensuring that federal resources are used effectively to promote student achievement,” Madi Biedermann, the Deputy Assistant Secretary, Office of Communications and Outreach, said in a statement. “We will continue to identify and remove barriers in the way of educational innovation and excellence.”
This decision is a huge win for charter school advocates, who view it as a step toward increased autonomy in charter school operations. Concept Schools applied for a charter school program grant in June 2024 and will be notified this month if its application will be selected for funding. If awarded, it will be a windfall for Concept’s strategic growth plan.
U.S. Supreme Court Set To Decide Fate Of Religious Charter Schools
The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear a pivotal case concerning the establishment of religious charter schools, focusing on Oklahoma's St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School, which seeks to become the nation's first publicly funded religious charter institution.
The Oklahoma Statewide Virtual Charter School Board initially approved St. Isidore's application, prompting state Attorney General Gentner Drummond to challenge the decision, arguing it violated constitutional provisions separating church and state.
The Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled against the school's establishment, reinforcing the principle that public funds should not support religious education. Proponents, including Governor Kevin Stitt, argue that allowing religious charter schools expands educational choice and upholds religious freedom.
Conversely, organizations like the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools caution that permitting religious charter schools could blur the lines between church and state, potentially undermining the secular nature of public education.
The Supreme Court's decision is expected by early summer and could significantly impact the future of charter schools and the interpretation of the First Amendment concerning public funding of religious institutions.
Illinois Proposes Stronger Charter School Regulations
Illinois has brought to the table new legislation that would tighten regulations governing charter schools. Senate Bill 144, which was introduced in January 2025, seeks to prohibit charters from being granted to organizations that operate private, parochial or non-traditional public schools or child care facilities.
The bill mandates that charter schools allocate at least 90% of their budgets to direct-service costs for students. It also details proposed procedures for when a charter school closes. If this legislation is passed, displaced students would be guaranteed seats in receiving schools. Concurrently, teachers from the previous school would be employed at these institutions.
Gov. DeWine Keeps Momentum Going For Ohio Charter Schools
Gov. Mike DeWine has been a steadfast advocate for Ohio's public charter schools, notably implementing the high-quality charter funding program in 2019, which has alleviated financial disparities and enhanced student outcomes.
In his recent biennial budget proposal, DeWine introduced several initiatives to further support charter schools:
- Institutionalizing Charter Funding Programs: The budget seeks to enshrine existing funding initiatives—such as the high-quality charter funds, charter equity supplement, and per-pupil facilities allowance—into state law. This move aims to protect these programs from potential future budget cuts, ensuring sustained financial support for charter schools.
- Increasing Facilities Funding: Recognizing the challenges charter schools face in securing adequate facilities, the proposal recommends raising the per-pupil facilities allowance from $1,000 to $1,500. This increase would help charter schools better manage building-related expenses, as they often lack access to local tax revenues designated for district capital projects.
- Enhancing Accountability Measures: The budget emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards within the charter sector by proposing improved accountability measures. These measures aim to ensure that charter schools continue to deliver quality education and operate transparently, thereby fostering trust and efficacy within the community.
- Quality School Grant: The Quality Community Schools Support Fund is an Ohio state initiative designed to provide additional financial support to high-performing charter schools. Established in 2019 under DeWine’s administration, the grant aims to reduce funding disparities between charter and district schools and encourage the growth of high-quality charter schools. Most Concept network schools receive $1,750 in additional per-pupil funding through this grant.
By integrating these proposals into the state's educational framework, DeWine aims to solidify and advance the progress of Ohio's charter schools, ensuring they remain a viable and effective option for families seeking alternative public education choices.
Indiana Lawmakers Advocate for Redistribution of Property Tax Revenues
Indiana's legislature is advancing Senate Bill 518––which proposes a significant shift in the allocation of property tax revenues. The bill would require school districts with at least 100 students attending charter schools to share revenue from property tax levies designated for debt service, school safety referendums and certain controlled projects with charter schools within their boundaries.
The proposed redistribution of public funds would take place over the next three years with the hope of addressing funding disparities between traditional public schools and charter schools. Sen. Linda Rogers (R-Granger), who authored the bill, believes this is the best path forward as more and more families are looking to explore different options for their children’s educational journey.
“It is simply unacceptable to me that a student who chooses a different public school than the one to which they are geographically assigned should receive thousands less in educational funding annually,” Rogers told WFYI.
Florida Proposes Series of Pro-Charter School Legislature
Florida lawmakers have wasted no time getting to work on behalf of charter schools in 2025.
This year, the state has put forth significant legislation favoring the growth and operational flexibility of charter schools. Senate Bill 822 (SB 822) and House Bill 443 (HB 443) introduced measures to enhance charter school operations and expansion. Here are some of the highlights:
- High-performing charter schools are now eligible for charters lasting up to 15 years.
- Charter schools can increase student enrollment beyond initially approved capacities as long as the facilities can accommodate the growth. This provision addresses the rising demand for charter school placements.
- The bills clarify that facilities and land used by charter schools are exempt from specific ad valorem taxes. This would potentially reduce operational costs and enable further investment in educational resources.
- Charter schools are authorized to assign their charters to another governing board under certain conditions. High-performing charter schools can also assume the charters of other schools. This would make it easier to facilitate the replication of successful educational models, something Concept Schools has been able to do with great success since it became a charter management organization in 1999.
Florida has shown a commitment to expanding educational choices and supporting the charter school system's growth for many years and 2025 has been no exception.
Are you interested in hearing more about the latest news in the charter school movement? Concept Schools has you covered. Subscribe to our newsletter so you don’t miss out on the next update we send out.
California Enacts New Requirements for Charter Schools
California has implemented several legislative changes affecting charter schools in 2025. Assembly Bill 5, known as the Safe and Supportive Schools Act, mandates that beginning with the 2025–26 school year, local educational agencies (LEAs) serving students in grades 7-12 provide one hour of annual training to teachers and certificated employees. This training focuses on creating safe and supportive school environments.
Additionally, Assembly Bill 101 requires LEAs to offer an ethnic studies course for high school students starting in the 2025–26 school year. This course has been added as a graduation requirement for students graduating in the class of 2030. These initiatives aim to promote inclusivity and cultural awareness within the educational curriculum.
Texas Lawmakers At Odds Over School Voucher and Charter School Funding
Texas’ political climate is getting heated.
State lawmakers recently sparred over the possible ratification of Senate Bill 2 (SB2), a proposal that would allocate $1 billion in school voucher funding. The bill’s purpose is to provide financial assistance for students to attend private or charter schools rather than traditional public schools.
Those in favor of the bill argue it would expand school choice and allow families more flexibility in selecting the best educational path for their children. Charter schools would be able to increase enrollment and bolster their funding opportunities under the law.
"This bill is not intended to support private schools,” said Texas State Director for the American Federation for Children Nathan Cunneen. “This bill is not intended to hurt public schools. This bill is intended to give Texas students the option, the freedom, the ability to get the education that they need and deserve."
Gov. Gregg Abbott, who previously attempted to pass a similar bill but failed, believes it will go through now that Republicans have a majority in both the Senate and House of Representatives.
What This Means for Educators and Parents
The evolving legislative landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for educators, administrators and parents involved in charter schools. Increased funding and autonomy may enhance educational offerings and operational flexibility. However, stricter regulations and funding redistributions could necessitate adjustments in budgeting, curriculum development and administrative practices.
To navigate these changes effectively, stakeholders should:
- Engage with policymakers and school boards to understand how new laws will be implemented.
- Participate in public forums to advocate for policies that best serve their communities.
- Stay informed about funding and accountability measures to ensure compliance and financial stability.
By keeping up with these legislative changes, educators and parents can proactively shape charter school policies and advocate for educational equity.
Final Thoughts: Charter School Laws Continue to Evolve
The 2025 charter school law updates reflect a shifting landscape in education policy. As debates over funding, oversight and equity continue, educators and parents must stay informed and actively participate in shaping the future of charter schools.
Are you interested in hearing more about what is going on in the charter school sector? Make sure to subscribe to Concept Schools’ newsletter and follow us on LinkedIn to stay up to date on the latest news around education policies.
