Public charter schools are meant to complement the traditional public school system by providing a new and innovative educational program.  Public charter schools must achieve high level of success with students who are typically not well served in a traditional school or program.  Starting a public charter school is a community effort that often results in significant improvements in that community's educational offerings.  Below are resources designed to introduce you to the first steps toward a public charter school in your area.  

In Wisconsin the school board can authorize a charter school in their school district.  Each charter school looking to open in a school district, needs to contact that school district to determine the process and timeline in obtaining authorization of a charter school.

In Milwaukee, their are multiple charter school authorizers.

• University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee - Click here for more information.
• City of Milwaukee - Click here for timeline and application process.
• Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) - Click here for more information.
• Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) - currently no charter schools are authorized by MATC

In addition to the resources below, contact WCSA to set up a time to meet with a staff member to introduce you to the process and answer any questions you might have! WCSA works with a range of consultants and can match you with the right person to meet your needs.

Charter School Grants are available through the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.  Grant deadline is April 15.  Click here for more information.

Wisconsin Charter School Law - State Statutes 118.40

Charter Starters

Starting a Charter School

Learning Institute for Nonprofit Organizations

Education Resources Information Center

National School Public Relations Association

Assistance and Guidance

Creating Family Friendly Schools

New Schools Handbook

Building Excellent Schools