Category: State Public Charter School Authority

Nevada Ed-Watch: 3/3/23

Posted on by Opportunity 180

The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.

State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA)

What is the SPCSA & what are they responsible for? Considered one of Nevada’s school districts, the SPCSA sponsors and oversees public charter schools. The Authority consists of seven appointed members responsible for overseeing educational and operational standards and holding sponsored schools accountable to the academic achievement of students. 

How often does the SPCSA Board meet? The SPCSA typically meets once a month, generally on Fridays. 

Click here for SPCSA meeting schedule and materials.

Can community members engage at SPCSA Board Meetings? While all meetings of the SPCSA are typically held publicly at the Nevada Department of Education building in Carson City and the Nevada Department of Education building in Las Vegas (1st floor boardroom), all meetings are now held virtually due to the COVID-19 crisis. Members of the public may view the meeting online via the link on the SPCSA’s Public Notice web page and the agenda and any supporting materials can be found here. Public comment may be given on any agenda item at the beginning of the meeting, or public comment regarding any matter that is SPCSA-related may be given at the conclusion of each Board meeting. Members of the community giving public comment can utilize the following conference call line: 1-312-584-2401; extension 3952176# with a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Alternatively, public comment may be submitted in writing to publiccomment@spcsa.nv.gov, and any such public comment received prior to the meeting will be provided to the Authority and included in the written minutes of the meeting.

Click here for a list of all SPCSA Members.
Click here for a list of all SPCSA sponsored schools.

Friday, March 3, 2023
State Public Charter School Authority Board Meeting
Access the meeting agenda and playback.

What happened at this meeting? 

SPCSA Executive Director’s Report

  • Legislative Update: SPCSA staff has met with legislative leadership, as well as Education committees. SPCSA overview and budget presentations have also been given. None of the bills being monitored by the SPCSA have been voted on yet. Explore more on the legislative update.
  • Letters of Intent for New Charter Schools: Fourteen Letters of Intent have been submitted, and applications are due April 30. The training series on the application has been completed, and all trainings are available online. View the list of Letters of Intent for the 2023 Charter Application Cycle.
  • Review of Recent Executive Orders: Executive Order 005 requires all school districts (including SPCSA) to submit third-party audits during the 2022 calendar year. This includes financial, performance, PERS, enrollment, and other evaluations. The materials have been submitted to the Governor’s office prior to the March 1 deadline.

Board Received an Update on Executive Order 2023-003

SPCSA staff provided an overview of Executive Order 2023-003, which requires all state agencies (including SPCSA) undertake a review of regulations subject to the state agency’s enforcement to determine how to streamline, clarify, reduce, or clarify those regulations. Ten regulations must be submitted to the Governor’s office for potential reduction. Charter school stakeholders participated in this process. Staff also noted that compared with other state agencies, the SPCSA has very few regulations.

Six SPCSA regulations have been identified to eliminate, including several where the regulatory authority granted by the regulation is duplicative. Two additional regulations have been identified to combine and simplify, and two have been provided to round out the requirement of ten regulations. Staff cautioned that the final two regulations are not advised to eliminate or reduce.

Explore the memo.

Board Received an Update on Schools Opening in Fall 2023

  • Eagle Charter Schools of Nevada: Primary focus areas include student recruitment, hiring, and facility oversight. An office manager will be onboarded by April 1, and website and social media updates are underway. Professional development for the principal has also taken place. 400+ applications have been submitted so far. Explore the presentation.
  • Pinecrest Academy Springs Campus: The land use application for the facility is complete, and the design team and contractor are working on facility plans. There are currently 175 students registered for grades K-3, with a waiting list formed for grades K and 3. The goal enrollment is 257 students. Several bilingual staff members have also been hired. Explore the presentation.
  • Rooted School – Clark County: As of February 27, all conditions for pre-opening have been met. The school will collocate with Nevada Prep Academy for its first year. Info sessions for enrollment begin March 7, and enrollment opens on March 18. The Director of Operations has been hired, with several teaching positions and an office manager advertised. Explore the presentation.
  • Southern Nevada Trades High School: A principal has been hired and began work March 1. The Sunrise Manor Town Council did not recommend approving the school, and a neighborhood meeting to address residential concerns about noise and traffic was held March 2. The school is on the agenda for the Clark County Commission meeting on March 8. There are 25 applicants, as of February 24. Explore the update.

Board Approved Several Charter School Contract Amendments

  • Battle Born Academy: The Board conditionally approved the school’s request to relocate to a new facility for the 2023-24 school year. The permanent facility will be located at 2101 E. Owens Ave., North Las Vegas, NV 89030, which was previously occupied as a church. Explore the amendment application and the recommendation memo.
  • Elko Institute for Academic Achievement: The Board approved the school’s Good Cause Exemption to reduce its enrollment cap for the 2022-23 school year. It also conditionally approved the deferral of occupying its permanent facility until January 2024 and occupying a temporary facility for Grades 5-8 in the fall of 2023. Explore the amendment application and the recommendation memo.
  • TEACH Las Vegas: The Board approved the Good Cause Exemption to reduce the school’s enrollment caps for the 2022-24 school year, as well as well as subsequent years through the 2027-28 school year. It also approved delaying the school’s transportation plan implementation until the 2023-24 school year. Explore the amendment application and recommendation memo.

Board Heard the Financial Performance Review and Took Action on Recommendations for Schools

Thirty of 38 audits have been received and included. Schools receive seven formal ratings, one for each indicator within the Financial Performance Framework. The Board adopted the SPCSA Financial Performance Framework results presented for FY2022 for all indicators (except for the Enrollment Variance, which was not rated, and findings from Democracy Prep, which submitted additional information prior to the board meeting).

The Board rescinded the Notice of Concern for Quest Preparatory Academy, and maintained the Notice of Concern for Signature Preparatory, as the school is still working to resolve some financial concerns.

The Board issued Notices of Concern for Girls Empowerment Middle School and TEACH Las Vegas. Consideration of a Notice of Concern for Democracy Prep was moved to a later meeting.  Each school will be required to submit a Financial Improvement Plan and provide quarterly updates on the plan’s implementation. Legacy Traditional Schools will also need to submit an updated Targeted Remediation Plan for FY2023 and FY2024.

Explore the ratings memo and the presentation.

Board Adopted the 2023 Growth Management Plan

Revisions to the Plan include:

  • Identifying gaps in serving students who qualify for Free and Reduced Lunch, English learner students, and students who receive Special Education
  • Updating the number of campuses under SPCSA sponsorship, current information, and practices
  • Updating SPCSA performance data, compared with State and District data, as well as student demographic data
  • Updating current educational models within the SPCSA
  • New charter school expansions and new school openings, as well as potential future expansions and new schools
  • Updating new proposed policies to support strategic goals
  • Formalizing procedures for proven provider status

Review the plan.

Long-Range Calendar (next 3 months):

Agenda items over the next three SPCSA board meetings are anticipated to include:

  • Charter school contract amendments
  • Revolving loan application recommendations
  • New schools update
  • Legislative updates
  • Charter school applications received

Explore the calendar.

The next Meeting of the SPCSA Board is scheduled for Friday, April 14, 2023, @ 9:00 a.m. 

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Nevada Ed-Watch: 1/27/23

Posted on by Opportunity 180

The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.

State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA)

What is the SPCSA & what are they responsible for? Considered one of Nevada’s school districts, the SPCSA sponsors and oversees public charter schools. The Authority consists of seven appointed members responsible for overseeing educational and operational standards and holding sponsored schools accountable to the academic achievement of students. 

How often does the SPCSA Board meet? The SPCSA typically meets once a month, generally on Fridays. 

Click here for SPCSA meeting schedule and materials.

Can community members engage at SPCSA Board Meetings? While all meetings of the SPCSA are typically held publicly at the Nevada Department of Education building in Carson City and the Nevada Department of Education building in Las Vegas (1st floor boardroom), all meetings are now held virtually due to the COVID-19 crisis. Members of the public may view the meeting online via the link on the SPCSA’s Public Notice web page and the agenda and any supporting materials can be found here. Public comment may be given on any agenda item at the beginning of the meeting, or public comment regarding any matter that is SPCSA-related may be given at the conclusion of each Board meeting. Members of the community giving public comment can utilize the following conference call line: 1-312-584-2401; extension 3952176# with a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Alternatively, public comment may be submitted in writing to publiccomment@spcsa.nv.gov, and any such public comment received prior to the meeting will be provided to the Authority and included in the written minutes of the meeting.

Click here for a list of all SPCSA Members.
Click here for a list of all SPCSA sponsored schools.

Friday, January 27, 2022
State Public Charter School Authority Board Meeting
Access the meeting agenda and playback.

What happened at this meeting? 

Public Comment #1 

Public comment was heard on:

  • National School Choice Week and the Las Vegas School Choice Fair (over 16,000 attendees, 85 schools/campus)

SPCSA Executive Director’s Report

  • Legislative Session Preview:
    • SPCSA will provide an “SPCSA 101” presentation to the Assembly and Senate Education Committees and a budget presentation to the Subcommittee on K-12 Education. Dates are not yet finalized.
    • SPCSA will share a recap of education and charter school related bills that have passed at the June or July 2023 board meeting.
    • The SPCSA Legislative Session memo includes a list of bills that the SPCSA is currently tracking. View the memo here.
  • Executive Order 2023-003:
    • On Jan 12, 2023, Governor Lombardo issued  Executive Directive 2023-003 which requires agencies to review regulations subject to that agency’s enforcement power and identify regulations that can be improved, streamlined, clarified, and eliminated. The report is due to the Governor’s office on May 1, 2023 and must include a list of 10 regulations that the agency recommends eliminating.
    • SPCSA is going through admin code 388A and will revisit this item at the March 2023 board meeting.
  • New Charter School Applicant Training and Guidance:
    • SPCSA worked to review and update the new charter school application ahead of the April 2023 application deadline. Staff also updated the  application guidance document with more details. 
    • SPCSA has held three unique training sessions: 1) overview of application/how the process works, application types 2) info to include in cover sheet/meeting the need, and 3) academic section of application. Recordings are available on the SPCSA website. 
    • Two training sessions will take place in February that will focus on the financial planning/budgeting and operations/addendum sections of the application.Trainings are live-streamed for virtual access. Letters of Intent are due January 30, 2023.
  • SPCSA Monitoring of Special Education Enrollment Practices:
    • Beginning next week, SPCSA staff will make random, unannounced calls to SPCSA-sponsored schools, roleplaying as a parent of a child with a disability seeking information on admission and enrollment. Staff will use a script and document school responses. The purpose of this process is to determine whether a barrier to entry exists (such as a family being denied or discouraged to apply on behalf of the student) and to ensure compliance with NRS 388A453. Schools will receive notice if no barriers are found. If barriers are found, the school will be notified and the SCPSA will conduct a second random call. The SPCSA will offer technical assistance to support schools in remediating barriers to entry. Schools have been notified of this process. 

New Schools Update

  • Eagle Charter Schools of Nevada:
    • Eagle Charter School will open as a K-5, growing to K-8. Year One planned enrollment is 540. The location will be 2025 E. Sahara Ave in Las Vegas. 
    • The school shared updates on pre-opening activities, student recruitment/enrollment, hiring, facility oversight, and charter application conditions. Explore the update.
  • Rooted School – Clark County:
    • Rooted School will open this fall with Grades 9 & 10. Year 1 planned enrollment is 180. The school has a space at Nevada Prep Charter School.
    • The school shared updates on the facilities, charter application conditions, branding and marketing, student recruitment, and staffing. Explore the update.
  • Southern Nevada Trades High School:
    • The school will open with grades 9 and 10. Planned Year One enrollment is 200 students. The school is planning its location at 1580 Bledsoe Lane in Las Vegas, and shared updates on school building construction, hiring, and community outreach efforts. Explore the update.
  • Pinecrest Academy – Springs Campus:
    • The school has submitted an amendment requesting a good cause exemption to adjust school location, enrollment cap, and grade levels served. The original campus was to open in 89107 but the school was unable to secure a lease. The temporary campus will be located at 6151 W Charleston Blvd in Las Vegas for at least the first two years. Explore the update and the recommendation memo.
    • Board approved a motion to grant the good cause exemption request and conditionally approved Pinecrest’s request to occupy a temporary facility at 6151 W. Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV, 89146, through the 2024-25 SY.

Board Heard an Update from Mater Academy of Northern Nevada

The Board received a presentation from Mater Academy of Northern Nevada about their work toward ensuring student success. Mater is a K-8 school with 311 elementary school students and 182 middle students serving a diverse student population that includes 100% FRL, 38% multi-language learners, and 15% IEP. The school saw significant growth in NSPF index scores for the 2021-22 school year, attributing that growth to their focus on a “family-like” school culture, dedicated staff, high rigor and grade level expectations, instructional assistants that are trained like teachers, working with an instructional data coach, formative and summative assessments, and strong focus on social-emotional learning and supports, PBIS, and restorative justice. 

Explore the presentation.

Board Discussed the SPCSA Annual Review and Overview of SPCSA-Sponsored Public Charter Schools

There are 78 campuses currently served by the SPCSA, 85% of which are in Clark County. The current student count is just under 60,000 students, or about 12% of public school students statewide. The SPCSA goals and their respective progress include:

  • Provide families with access to high quality schools: 80% of SPCSA schools are earning an index score of 50+, and 55% are projected to be 4- and 5-star schools; SPCSA graduation rates are 86%.
    • Opportunities include continuing to close achievement gaps among students.
  • Ensure that every SPCSA student succeeds – including those from historically underserved student groups: All SPCSA student groups outperformed their state peers in 3rd-8th grade, and most outperformed their state peers in 11th grade math and ELA. Most SPCSA student groups’ graduation rates exceeded the respective statewide student group.
  • Increase the diversity of students served by SPCSA schools: Demographics show steady progress towards alignment with the state, including students who qualify for free and reduced lunch and English learners.

Explore the State of the SPCSA presentation and the organization’s strategic plan progress report.

Board Approved the Annual Report to the Nevada Department of Education

The board presented its annual report to the Nevada Department of Education, as required by NRS 388A.351. The report contains information on student and school performance, progress made on SPCSA’s strategic plan, performance framework results, and status of current schools, as well as schools scheduled to open.

Explore the report.

Board Approved the Updates to the COVID-19 Plan for the Safe Return to In-Person Instruction

Updates to the plan include:

  • Providing access to COVID-19 testing resources for interested schools, beginning in the 2021-22 school year
  • Additional academic monitoring or oversight in 13 school campuses
  • Updating enrollment

Explore the Plan for the Safe Return to In-Person Instruction.

Board Approved Participation in the National Association of Charter School Authorizers’ Leadership in Action Cohort

The Board approved the Executive Director’s and/or her designee’s participation in the National Association of Charter School Authorizers’ Leadership in Action cohort. There is no cost for participation, but the agency would be responsible for travel costs.

Explore the recommendation memo.

Long-Range Calendar (next 3 months):

Agenda items over the next three SPCSA board meetings are anticipated to include:

  • Financial Performance Framework results
  • Legislative session updates
  • Revolving loan application recommendations
  • New schools update

Explore the calendar.

The next Meeting of the SPCSA Board is scheduled for Friday, March 3, 2023, @ 9:00 a.m. 

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Nevada Ed-Watch: 12/16/22

Posted on by Opportunity 180

The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.

State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA)

What is the SPCSA & what are they responsible for? Considered one of Nevada’s school districts, the SPCSA sponsors and oversees public charter schools. The Authority consists of seven appointed members responsible for overseeing educational and operational standards and holding sponsored schools accountable to the academic achievement of students. 

How often does the SPCSA Board meet? The SPCSA typically meets once a month, generally on Fridays. 

Click here for SPCSA meeting schedule and materials.

Can community members engage at SPCSA Board Meetings? While all meetings of the SPCSA are typically held publicly at the Nevada Department of Education building in Carson City and the Nevada Department of Education building in Las Vegas (1st floor boardroom), all meetings are now held virtually due to the COVID-19 crisis. Members of the public may view the meeting online via the link on the SPCSA’s Public Notice web page and the agenda and any supporting materials can be found here. Public comment may be given on any agenda item at the beginning of the meeting, or public comment regarding any matter that is SPCSA-related may be given at the conclusion of each Board meeting. Members of the community giving public comment can utilize the following conference call line: 1-312-584-2401; extension 3952176# with a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Alternatively, public comment may be submitted in writing to publiccomment@spcsa.nv.gov, and any such public comment received prior to the meeting will be provided to the Authority and included in the written minutes of the meeting.

Click here for a list of all SPCSA Members.
Click here for a list of all SPCSA sponsored schools.

Friday, December 16, 2022
State Public Charter School Authority Board Meeting
Access the meeting agenda and playback.

What happened at this meeting? 

Public Comment #1 

Public comment was heard on:

  • Supporting an increase in the student cap at Discovery Charter School

Board Approved the Consent Agenda

SPCSA Executive Director’s Report

Highlights from the report include:

  • Initiatives Related to Serving All Students Equitably: Over the last several months, the Authority has looked at a number of data points on different student populations and today will be viewing graduation rates.
  • Legislative Session: Interim Committees & Planning: The Governor’s recommended budget will be released in January and at that time Authority staff will know about any adjustments to its budget. The Authority is also monitoring bill draft requests and is responding as needed to legislative requests on fiscal and other impacts. The Authority’s Fiscal Impacts Working Group will be reconvening in 2023 and they are recruiting for that now.
  • New Charter Schools Pre-Opening Process: Two trainings have been conducted to date, one on enrollment and lottery procedures, and one on opening meeting laws. Three trainings are scheduled for January, and others will be held throughout the year.

Board Approved School Contract Renewal Applications

The Board approved Discovery Charter School’s application for a four-year term beginning July 1, 2023.

Explore the  recommendation memo and renewal application.

The Board approved Doral Academy of Northern Nevada’s application for an eight-year term beginning July 1, 2023.

Explore the recommendation memo and renewal application.

The Board approved Freedom Classical Academy’s application for a three-year term beginning July 1, 2023.

Explore the recommendation memo and renewal application.

The Board approved Imagine Schools at Mountain View’s application for a six-year term beginning July 1, 2023.

Explore the recommendation memo and renewal application.

The Board approved Mater Academy of Northern Nevada’s application for a five-year term beginning July 1, 2023.

Explore the recommendation memo and renewal application.

The Board approved Nevada Connections Academy’s application for a four-year term beginning July 1, 2023.

Explore the recommendation memo and renewal application.

The Board approved Oasis Academy’s application for a nine-year term beginning July 1, 2023.

Explore the recommendation memo and renewal application.

The Board approved Quest Preparatory Academy’s application for a four-year term beginning July 1, 2023.

Explore the recommendation memo and renewal application.

Board Heard an Update from Beacon Academy of Nevada

Beacon Academy is a blended alternative education high school that provides a flexible, personalized program for at-risk students who qualify for enrollment. Across two campuses, the school has 552 students, of whom 82% are making up for credit deficiencies. Its four-year cohort graduation rate in 2022 was 17.8%, and the school has typically received a higher school climate survey rating than state and district average.

Beacon Academy staff reviewed school performance on growth, status, college and career readiness, student engagement, and SPCSA report card results (on which it ranks as adequate overall). Chronic absenteeism was identified as a critical need.

Next steps for the school include continuing to address COVID learning loss and chronic absenteeism, as well as increasing attendance, students earning a C or higher,  number of graduates each term, and the number of students earning two or more credits each term.

Explore the presentation and academic results appendix.

Board Reviewed School Contract Amendment Applications

The Board approved Girls Empowerment Middle School’s enrollment cap reduction from 140 to 100 students for the 2022-2023 school year.

Explore the recommendation memo.

The board approved pilotED Schools of Nevada – Cactus Park Elementary School’s enrollment cap reduction from 351 to 130 students for the 2022-2023 school year.

Explore the recommendation memo.

The board approved Strong Start Academy Elementary School’s first-year enrollment cap reduction from 180 to 85 students, and adjustments to the enrollment cap in years 2-5 as a result of current enrollment.

Explore the recommendation memo.

The board approved Young Women’s Leadership Academy’s enrollment cap reduction from 110 to 58 students for the 2022-2023 school year.

Explore the recommendation memo.

The board approved Battle Born Academy’s request to continue occupancy at its current facility for the 2023-2024 school year; reduce enrollment in existing approved grade levels for the 2023-2024 school year from 240 to 140 students, as well as through the remainder of the charter term; and adjust grade levels beginning in Year 2 to already-approved grades.

Explore the recommendation memo.

The board approved the relocation of Discovery Charter School’s Sandhill campus to 4801 S. Sandhill Rd. It separately denied the request to expand the Hillpointe and Sandhill campuses due to ongoing academic performance concerns.

Explore the recommendation memo.

The board approved Founders Classical Academy Las Vegas’ enrollment increase in grade levels the school already serves, beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, and occupy an additional facility on its existing campus beginning in the 2024-2025 school year.

Explore the recommendation memo.

The board conditionally approved Eagle Charter Schools of Nevada’s request to approve a formal separation between the local school and Eagle Charter Schools, the charter management organization listed on the school’s charter application. Amendments were made to clarify part-time status for some employees.

Explore the recommendation memo.

Board Received an Update on the Graduation Rate for the Class of 2022

The four-year graduation rate for the SPCSA Class of 2022 was 86%, outperforming the state’s overall graduation records, and down slightly from the SPCSA graduation rate of 2020-2021 (86.8%). Nine SPCSA student groups outperformed peers in the state groups, including students with disabilities and English Language Learners, as well as several student demographics, including students identifying as Black/African-American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian/Native American, and those identifying as two or more races. In 2022, 53.5% of SPCSA students received an advanced or Career and College Readiness (CCR) diploma, compared with the state’s 41.9%.  

Explore the presentation and the attachment.

Board Accepted the SPCSA Organizational Performance Review for the 2021-2022 School Year

Staff presented the results and recommendations for SPCSA schools. Areas of focus in the framework include the education program, financial management and oversight, governance and reporting, students and employees, and school environment, and each is rated as ‘meets standard rating’ or ‘does not meet standard.’ In the 2021-2022 school year, all schools earned at least 80 points (out of a possible 100 points), and all met the standard rating.

The Board accepted the 2021-2022 organizational framework performance review as presented and Authority staff will provide final results to each school in the coming weeks.

Explore the presentation and the ratings report.

Board Received an Overview of the Financial Performance Framework

Staff provided an overview of the financial performance framework. Principles of this framework include defining financial benchmarks, treating schools the same, enabling flexibility and autonomy, and ensuring transparency to the public. Indicators for this framework include near term measures (current ratio, unrestricted days cash-on-hand, enrollment forecast accuracy, and debt default) and sustainability measures (total margin, debt-to-asset ratio, cash flow, and debt service coverage ratio). Each indicator is rated as either ‘meets standard rating,’ ‘does not meet standard,’ or ‘falls far below standard.’ Adverse findings may trigger interventions.

Most audits have been presented to individual charter boards, and audits are required to be submitted by December 1. Preliminary results will be provided to schools by December 23, and final data will be presented to the authorizer by January 27, 2023.

Explore the presentation.

Board Received an Update on the SPCSA Growth Management Plan

The SPCSA is scheduled to consider revisions to its growth management plan in January 2023. Staff identified several technical updates, including data, conducting a new survey to charter holders regarding future growth, and ensuring accurate projections for 2022-2023. A working group recommended expanding transportation options, emphasizing the relationship between the schools and real-world context, prioritizing diversity, partnering with municipalities, reporting on post-opening performance and goals, and understanding charter schools’ impact on district schools.

Board members discussed policies, procedures, capacity, and resources to consider with the updated plan, including increasing the number of high-quality applicants, opportunities for additional technical assistance, professional development opportunities, scalability, revisions to the Pupil Centered Funding Plan, and additional resources for facilities funding.

Explore the presentation and the 2021 Growth Management Plan.

Long-Range Calendar (next 3 months):

Agenda items over the next three SPCSA board meetings are anticipated to include:

  • Financial performance framework results
  • Annual report to the Nevada Department of Education
  • State of the SPCSA
  • New schools update
  • Legislative session update

Explore the calendar.

The next Meeting of the SPCSA Board is scheduled for Friday, January 27, 2023, @ 9:00 a.m. 

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Nevada Ed-Watch: 11/18/22

Posted on by Opportunity 180

The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.

State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA)

What is the SPCSA & what are they responsible for? Considered one of Nevada’s school districts, the SPCSA sponsors and oversees public charter schools. The Authority consists of seven appointed members responsible for overseeing educational and operational standards and holding sponsored schools accountable to the academic achievement of students. 

How often does the SPCSA Board meet? The SPCSA typically meets once a month, generally on Fridays. 

Click here for SPCSA meeting schedule and materials.

Can community members engage at SPCSA Board Meetings? While all meetings of the SPCSA are typically held publicly at the Nevada Department of Education building in Carson City and the Nevada Department of Education building in Las Vegas (1st floor boardroom), all meetings are now held virtually due to the COVID-19 crisis. Members of the public may view the meeting online via the link on the SPCSA’s Public Notice web page and the agenda and any supporting materials can be found here. Public comment may be given on any agenda item at the beginning of the meeting, or public comment regarding any matter that is SPCSA-related may be given at the conclusion of each Board meeting. Members of the community giving public comment can utilize the following conference call line: 1-312-584-2401; extension 3952176# with a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Alternatively, public comment may be submitted in writing to publiccomment@spcsa.nv.gov, and any such public comment received prior to the meeting will be provided to the Authority and included in the written minutes of the meeting.

Click here for a list of all SPCSA Members.
Click here for a list of all SPCSA sponsored schools.

Friday, November 18, 2022
State Public Charter School Authority Board Meeting
Access the meeting agenda and playback.

What happened at this meeting? 

Public Comment #1 

Public comment was heard on:

  • Concerns regarding Coral Academy
  • Adding a school for SPCSA additional oversight

SPCSA Executive Director’s Report

Highlights from the report include:

  • Initiatives Related to Serving All Students Equitably: Fourteen SPCSA-sponsored schools were required to submit recruitment and enrollment plans containing specific strategies aimed at serving students equitably, with a focus on students who qualify for free or reduced lunch. All applicable schools have submitted plans, which are summarized in a memo here.
  • Legislative Session: Interim Committees & Planning: There are two main priorities in this section: working with the Governor’s office on the agency’s budget, and monitoring bill draft requests ahead of the legislative session, which begins in February.
  • Pre-Opening Process for Schools Opening in 2023: The board was provided with an overview of this process today. A checklist and memo will be provided to each applicable school, and more deliberate deadlines have been added. Explore the memo and checklist.

Board Approved School Contract Amendment Applications

The Board approved Somerset Academy of Las Vegas’ articulation agreement granting 8th grade students enrolled at the school’s middle school campus on Stephanie St. to enroll at Pinecrest Academy’s Cadence high school campus.

Explore the request and the recommendation memo.

The Board approved Pinecrest Academy of Nevada’s articulation agreement granting 8th grade students from Somerset Academy’s middle school campus to enroll at its Cadence high school campus. The Board also approved a modified lottery policy creating an enrollment preference for these students.

Explore the request and the recommendation memo.

The Board approved Mater Academy’s request to provide bus transportation of students to and from its campus for extracurricular activities.

Explore the request and the recommendation memo.

Board Reviewed 2021-2022 NSPF Results from the 2021-2022 School Year and Approved the Academic Performance Review and Recommendations

SPCSA staff provided an overview of how charter school performed on the Nevada School Performance Framework (NSPF) from the 2021-2022 school year. Almost 80% of SPCSA schools received a score of 50 or higher (3-star NSPF rating), outperforming the state. Proficiency rates increased for elementary and middle schools, but decreased for high school students.

Staff also provided an overview of the SPCSA Academic Performance Framework Ratings and how SPCSA schools are reviewed. Schools are reviewed on four indicators (NSPF index score, geographical comparison, enrollment diversity, and school progress), with metrics under each indicator. From there, a points system determines a rating of exceeds standard meets standard, does not meet standard, or below standard. On the SPCSAS Academic Performance Framework, 83% of SPCSA schools received a Met or Exceeds Standard rating.

Eight schools were approved to have prior notices for academic performance removed, and 13 schools were approved for additional oversight and monitoring for the 2022-2023 school year.

Explore the presentation and academic results appendix.

Board Received a New Schools Update

Board members received an update on Eagle Charter School, which was approved in January 2021 and is scheduled to open for the 2023-2024 school year. A facility has been identified at 2025 E. Sahara Ave., and construction and other key partners for facility development have been identified. A COO has been hired, and the school has final interviews for a principal scheduled in early December. Community engagement for recruitment is also underway, with an open enrollment scheduled from December 1 – February 1, and priorities of 1:1 and bilingual outreach, and frequent follow-ups to interested families.

Explore the presentation.

Board Conditionally Approved Rooted School’s Application

Rooted School – Clark County resubmitted its application for consideration, with a proposed opening of August 2023. This school’s mission is to rapidly reduce America’s wealth gap by connecting underserved and talented teenagers with career and financial pathways.

The Board approved Rooted School’s application with conditions and deadlines, including providing revised lottery policies, providing a fully executed lease for a facility, hiring a principal, and ensuring career and technical education courses comply with NDE requirements.

Explore the recommendation memo and resubmitted application.

Board Approved the Charter Application and Rubric for 2023 Applications

Staff provided a review of the SPCSA’s authority and requirements for application review and approval, and presented several proposed changes to the application and rubric, after feedback from the board, past applicants, community partners, and a working group.

Major revisions include reformatting the application, revamping the training approach and providing additional trainings, publishing the timeline, clarifying submission expectations, incorporating constituent feedback, adding language to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion, and reorganizing sections of the application.

Explore the presentation, new application template, and proposed evaluation rubric.

Board Approved the 2023 Academic and Demographic Needs Assessment

Staff presented the updated 2023 Academic and Demographic Needs Assessment. Updates include the temporary use of index scores in place of star ratings, academic needs based on geographies with a 1- and 2-star rating, and a detailed breakdown of 1- and 2-star schools by school district.

Explore the assessment, needs map, and needs assessment data.

Board Received an Update on 2022-2023 School Year Demographics

Staff presented the 2022-2023 enrollment data. SPCSA is the third largest Local Education Agency in Nevada (behind Clark County and Washoe County School Districts), with 59,670 students for the 2022-2023 school year. This represents a 7.6% increase over 2021-22 enrollment numbers. Over 40% of SPCSA students are enrolled at Title I schools. Enrollment rates have increased for students identifying as Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, or Two or More Races, as well as economically disadvantaged students and students with disabilities. Further metrics on different student groups within Clark County, Washoe County, and statewide were also presented.

Explore the presentation and student enrollment attachment.

Board Received an Overview of the SPCSA’s Organizational Performance Framework

Staff presented an overview of the SPCSA’s Organizational Performance Framework. The performance framework measures the success, financial viability, and effectiveness of the school/organization. Principles of the Organizational Performance Framework include defining organizational benchmarks, treating schools the same, enabling school flexibility and autonomy, protecting public interest, and ensuring schools respect the rights of students, staff, families, and public.

Explore the presentation.

Long-Range Calendar (next 3 months):

Agenda items over the next three SPCSA board meetings are anticipated to include:

  • Graduation data
  • Organizational performance framework results
  • State of the SPCSA
  • New schools update

Explore the calendar.

Public Comment #2

Public comment was heard on:

  • Concerns regarding Nevada State High School
  • Potential additional student enrollment at Discovery Charter School

The next Meeting of the SPCSA Board is scheduled for Friday, December 16, 2022 @ 9:00 a.m. 

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Nevada Ed-Watch: 10/07/22

Posted on by Opportunity 180

The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.

State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA)

What is the SPCSA & what are they responsible for? Considered one of Nevada’s school districts, the SPCSA sponsors and oversees public charter schools. The Authority consists of seven appointed members responsible for overseeing educational and operational standards and holding sponsored schools accountable to the academic achievement of students. 

How often does the SPCSA Board meet? The SPCSA typically meets once a month, generally on Fridays. 

Click here for SPCSA meeting schedule and materials.

Can community members engage at SPCSA Board Meetings? While all meetings of the SPCSA are typically held publicly at the Nevada Department of Education building in Carson City and the Nevada Department of Education building in Las Vegas (1st floor boardroom), all meetings are now held virtually due to the COVID-19 crisis. Members of the public may view the meeting online via the link on the SPCSA’s Public Notice web page and the agenda and any supporting materials can be found here. Public comment may be given on any agenda item at the beginning of the meeting, or public comment regarding any matter that is SPCSA-related may be given at the conclusion of each Board meeting. Members of the community giving public comment can utilize the following conference call line: 1-312-584-2401; extension 3952176# with a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Alternatively, public comment may be submitted in writing to publiccomment@spcsa.nv.gov, and any such public comment received prior to the meeting will be provided to the Authority and included in the written minutes of the meeting.

Click here for a list of all SPCSA Members.
Click here for a list of all SPCSA sponsored schools.

Friday, October 7, 2022
State Public Charter School Authority Board Meeting
Access the meeting agenda and playback.

What happened at this meeting? 

Public Comment #1 

Public comment was heard on:

  • Coral Academy – Eastgate Campus’ request for grade level modifications
  • Pinecrest Academy’s new proposed campus

SPCSA Executive Director’s Report

Highlights from the report include:

  • Initiatives Related to Serving All Students Equitably: Fourteen SPCSA-sponsored schools were required to submit recruitment and enrollment plans containing specific strategies aimed at serving students equitably, with a focus on students who qualify for free or reduced lunch. Those plans were due 9/30 and all 14 schools submitted. SPCSA staff has begun review of these plans, with several different approaches and strategies identified within them, and will share at a later meeting.
  • Legislative Session & Interim Committees: The Interim Committee has concluded its work, and the agency’s requested budget has been submitted. SPCSA staff is tracking bill draft requests ahead of the legislative session.
  • 2023 Proposed Board Meeting Dates: The October 2023 board meeting date has been moved back a week to October 13. Explore the 2023 meeting dates.

Board Discussed Academic Performance for the 2021-2022 School Year

The Board discussed an overview of the Nevada School Performance Framework (NSPF) data for SPCSA schools, as well as a preview of the SPCSA’s academic performance framework. The requirement for star-level school ratings has been waived by the U.S. Department of Education for the 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 school years due to the pandemic, so the Nevada State Performance (NSP) Index has been utilized again.

Overall, SPCSA schools performed better than other schools in the state, with 79.5% of SPCSA schools earning a score higher than 50 on the NSP Index (the equivalent of a three-star or higher school), compared with the state’s 51.9% of schools earning a score higher than 50 on the NSP Index. Staff also reviewed proficiency trends and math/ELA growth percentiles and targets. Proficiency rates increased year over year for elementary and middle schools but decreased for high schools; student group proficiency rates followed a similar trend. SPCSA student groups generally outperformed their respective state student groups.

Staff also discussed the SPCSA Academic Performance Framework Overview. Schools earn points based on performance in different measures, and those points are totaled under indicators. The point total is tied to one of the four performance levels to determine a school’s rating. See below for an illustration of measures, indicators, and performance levels:

Slide courtesy of the Nevada State Public Charter School Authority

Explore the SPCSA academic performance presentation and the SPCSA Academic Performance Framework Overview.

Board Approved School Contract Amendment Applications

The Board approved Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas’ request to eliminate sixth and seventh grades at the Eastgate campus and move those students to the Windmill campus or Cadence campus for the 2023-2024 school year. Enrollment caps of any Coral Academy campus will not be affected.

Explore the request and the recommendation memo.

The Board approved Pinecrest Academy of Nevada’s expansion to a new campus, located at 4000 Meadows Lane, Las Vegas, NV, for the 2023-2024 school year, with additional conditions for community engagement for reaching students, providing SPCSA with proof that a lease for the campus was signed, and other stipulations.

Explore the request and the recommendation memo.

The Board approved Pinecrest Academy of Northern Nevada to enter into an agreement with the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony Head Start program and change the school’s lottery preferences to include this agreement.

Explore the request and the recommendation memo.

Board Reviewed Revisions to New Charter School Applications and Rubric

SPCSA staff provided an update regarding revisions to the new charter school application and rubric. Staff priorities were proposed, including ensuring alignment to the SPCSA strategic plan and needs assessment, consistency throughout the process, eliminating redundancy, ensuring statutory and regulatory requirements, and considering national best practices.

Board members were asked for feedback on prioritization, if any of the application components should stay as-is, and if any components of the application or rubric should be revised. Board members highlighted the importance of looking to best practices, creating a survey for feedback, and prioritizing diversity of leadership and teacher recruitment, among other ideas and suggestions provided.

Explore the presentation, rubric, and the new charter application.

Board Provided a Presentation on 2023 Academic and Demographic Needs Assessment

SPCSA staff provided the Board with an update on the 2023 Academic and Demographic Needs Assessment. By January 31 of each year, the SPCSA must conduct a needs assessment. There are three identified needs: demographic needs; academic needs of students in geographies with 1- and 2-star schools; and academic needs of students at risk of dropping out of school. A community working group provided feedback to consider incorporating information regarding needs of homeless students and students in foster care, as well as identifying and recruitment and outreach efforts to enroll and serve underperforming student populations.

Board members discussed several academic thresholds for applications, geography, transportation issues, and other potential areas of attention for consideration for the 2023 needs assessment.

Explore the presentation.

Board Reviewed and Approved the Charter School Contract Template

SPCSA staff presented the Board with an updated charter school contract template. The Board approved the template.

There are three charter school contracts, all of which will use the proposed template: the new charter school contract, amended charter school contract, and renewed charter school contract.

Explore the SPCSA Charter Contract Template.

Long-Range Calendar (next 3 months):

Agenda items over the next three SPCSA board meetings are anticipated to include:

  • 2023 new school updates
  • Overview of organizational performance framework
  • Review of graduation data
  • Review of enrollment and demographic data

Explore the calendar.

Public Comment #2

Public comment was heard on:

  • Bullying at a charter school facility
  • An upcoming amendment to increase enrollment at Discovery Charter School

The next Meeting of the SPCSA Board is scheduled for Friday, November 18, 2022 @ 9:00 a.m. 

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Nevada Ed-Watch: 08/29/22

Posted on by Opportunity 180

The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.

State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA)

What is the SPCSA & what are they responsible for? Considered one of Nevada’s school districts, the SPCSA sponsors and oversees public charter schools. The Authority consists of seven appointed members responsible for overseeing educational and operational standards and holding sponsored schools accountable to the academic achievement of students. 

How often does the SPCSA Board meet? The SPCSA typically meets once a month, generally on Fridays. 

Click here for SPCSA meeting schedule and materials.

Can community members engage at SPCSA Board Meetings? While all meetings of the SPCSA are typically held publicly at the Nevada Department of Education building in Carson City and the Nevada Department of Education building in Las Vegas (1st floor boardroom), all meetings are now held virtually due to the COVID-19 crisis. Members of the public may view the meeting online via the link on the SPCSA’s Public Notice web page and the agenda and any supporting materials can be found here. Public comment may be given on any agenda item at the beginning of the meeting, or public comment regarding any matter that is SPCSA-related may be given at the conclusion of each Board meeting. Members of the community giving public comment can utilize the following conference call line: 1-312-584-2401; extension 3952176# with a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Alternatively, public comment may be submitted in writing to publiccomment@spcsa.nv.gov, and any such public comment received prior to the meeting will be provided to the Authority and included in the written minutes of the meeting.

Click here for a list of all SPCSA Members.
Click here for a list of all SPCSA sponsored schools.

Monday, August 29, 2022
State Public Charter School Authority Board Meeting
Access the meeting agenda and playback.

What happened at this meeting? 

Public Comment #1 

Public comment was heard on:

  • Support for Rooted School – Clark County and Southern Nevada Trades High School

SPCSA Executive Director’s Report

Highlights from the report include:

  • Initiatives Related to Serving All Students Equitably: School plans are due to SPCSA staff by September 30. Staff will then provide feedback and prepare for those plans to be implemented for the 2023-2024 school year. An update on plans submitted will be provided at the October board meeting.
  • Legislative Session & Interim Committees: There is a meeting of the Interim Legislative Committee on August 30 for its biannual work session. It will consider recommendations and proposals in advance of the 2023 Legislative Session. Explore the Interim Committee’s recommendations.
  • State Infrastructure Bank: The State Infrastructure Bank has a dedicated $15 million revolving loan account for charter school capital needs, which can include financing or refinancing outstanding debts, development, construction, etc. of charter school facilities (both new and existing). Information on this program has been sent to schools, and the Authority will likely treat these requests similar to bonding requests, in terms of board approvals. Review the State Infrastructure Bank’s application.
  • Growth Management Plan: The Authority has shifted the timeline to coincide with new school applications and will be sending a survey to schools in coming weeks on five-year expansion plans.
  • Federal Emergency Grant Funding: ESSER I funding closes at the end of September, and the Authority is working to ensure schools have expended these funds. They are gaining approvals for the final third of the ESSER funds. Explore the emergency funding allocations as of August 2022.
  • New Schools and Campuses that Opened in August 2022: Eight new schools/campuses have successfully their opened doors for the 2022-2023 school year. Facilities, permitting, and enrollment challenges were noted. Explore the briefing memo.
  • 2021-2022 School Year Academic Performance Data: The State received a waiver from the federal government and star ratings for schools will not be calculated for the 2021-2022 school year, similar to the 2020-2021 school year. Instead, index scores will be used.
  • 2023 Proposed Board Meeting Dates: Explore the proposed 2023 meeting dates.

Board Received an Update on Mater Academy’s Programs That Serve Students with Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs)

Mater Academy’s Bonanza campus opened during the pandemic and saw a tremendous need for specialized programs and supports for students. There are three specialized programs, one at each campus. Positive behavior supports and differentiated instruction are provided to students, as well as after-school tutoring that helps students work towards mastery of their IEP goals, improves performance on standardized assessments,  and increases grade-level content mastery, improves behavior, and increases motivation. Students can also participate in extracurricular activities and clubs, which helps build peer connections and increase self-confidence.

Explore the presentation.

Board Approved Recommended Updates and Changes to the Site Evaluation Process for the 2021-2022 School Year

Staff reviewed updates and four proposed changes to site evaluation processes. Changes include strengthening the differentiating process, including better defining the evaluation and purpose, and implementing procedures before, during, and after both types of evaluation; conducting an optional follow-up site evaluation debrief with school leadership 3-7 days after the evaluation; providing a site evaluation feedback survey after the evaluation; and updating the Organizational Performance Chart in the site evaluation report.

Explore the presentation and the proposed 2022-2023 handbook.

Board Received an Update on the Closure of Argent Preparatory Academy

Argent Prep had been placed into receivership and closed at the end of the 2017-2018 school year. This was the final report from the receiver, as the court recently granted the motion to terminate the receivership.

Explore the update and the order granting the motion to terminate receivership.

Board Approved School Contract Amendment Applications

The Board approved PilotED – Cactus Park Elementary School’s request to provide temporary transportation for students from its permanent facility, located at 3115 Las Vegas Blvd., to its temporary facility at 1780 Betty Ln.

Explore the request and the recommendation memo.

Board Reviewed Charter School Applications

SPCSA staff provided the Board with their recommendations relating to the following charter school applications from the 2022 application cycle, and the Board took the following actions:

Southern Nevada Trades High School (SNTHS): This school aims to promote excellence in academic and career and technical education, preparing students for post-secondary education and careers in construction-related professions. It would serve grades 9-12, with a proposed opening in August 2023.

The board voted to approve SNTHS’ application with certain conditions, including providing a detailed plan for hiring the principal by September 30 and providing evidence that the principal has been hired by March 1, 2023; providing a fully executed agreement with ACE Charter School regarding ongoing services and supports to be provided by ACE Charter School by November 30; and providing a revised budget that includes an ELL/TESOL Teacher during the first year of operation by November 30.

Explore the application and the recommendation memo.

Rooted School – Clark County: This school aims to rapidly reduce America’s wealth gap by connecting underserved and talented teenagers with career and financial pathways. It would serve grades 9-12, with a proposed opening in August 2023.

The board voted not to approve Rooted School’s application as submitted, based on the recommendation of the review committee. The school was encouraged to review feedback, meet with staff, and resubmit its application within 30 days to address the identified issues and discrepancies. If the application is resubmitted, the Board may take up the approval of the resubmission at its November meeting.

Explore the application and the recommendation memo.

Mind Your Books Charter School: This school aims to improve academic achievement of at-risk students, encourage the use of effective and innovative teaching methods, and provide an accurate measurement of educational achievement by pioneering a wrap-around model of high-quality educational best practices and developing social-emotional wellness strategies. It would serve grades K-8, with a proposed opening in August 2023.

The board voted not to approve Mind Your Books Charter School’s application as submitted, based on the recommendation of the review committee.

Explore the application and the recommendation memo.

Additional resources on these schools, including achievement data, budget workbooks, and public input, can be found here.

Long-Range Calendar (next 3 months):

Agenda items over the next three SPCSA board meetings are anticipated to include:

  • Academic Performance Framework
  • Review of state assessment and school performance data
  • Resubmitted new charter school applications

The next Meeting of the SPCSA Board is scheduled for Friday, October 7, 2022 @ 9:00 a.m. 

Sign up to receive a notification when a new Ed-Watch post is published:

Nevada Ed-Watch: 7/29/22

Posted on by Opportunity 180

The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.

State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA)

What is the SPCSA & what are they responsible for? Considered one of Nevada’s school districts, the SPCSA sponsors and oversees public charter schools. The Authority consists of seven appointed members responsible for overseeing educational and operational standards and holding sponsored schools accountable to the academic achievement of students. 

How often does the SPCSA Board meet? The SPCSA typically meets once a month, generally on Fridays. 

Click here for SPCSA meeting schedule and materials.

Can community members engage at SPCSA Board Meetings? While all meetings of the SPCSA are typically held publicly at the Nevada Department of Education building in Carson City and the Nevada Department of Education building in Las Vegas (1st floor boardroom), all meetings are now held virtually due to the COVID-19 crisis. Members of the public may view the meeting online via the link on the SPCSA’s Public Notice web page and the agenda and any supporting materials can be found here. Public comment may be given on any agenda item at the beginning of the meeting, or public comment regarding any matter that is SPCSA-related may be given at the conclusion of each Board meeting. Members of the community giving public comment can utilize the following conference call line: 1-312-584-2401; extension 3952176# with a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Alternatively, public comment may be submitted in writing to publiccomment@spcsa.nv.gov, and any such public comment received prior to the meeting will be provided to the Authority and included in the written minutes of the meeting.

Click here for a list of all SPCSA Members.
Click here for a list of all SPCSA sponsored schools.

Friday, July 29, 2022
State Public Charter School Authority Board Meeting
Access the meeting agenda and playback.

What happened at this meeting? 

Public Comment #1 

Public comment was heard on:

  • Plan for the Safe Return to In-Person Instruction updates
  • Retaliation against a student at a charter school facility

SPCSA Executive Director’s Report

Highlights from the report include:

  • Initiatives Related to Serving All Students Equitably: Earlier in July, staff held a second working session for schools required to submit recruitment and enrollment plans. A third session is scheduled in August, and these plans must be submitted by schools no later than September 30.
  • Language Access Plan: A draft has been submitted and posted online. Highlights include the general policy, appointing a language access coordinator, and training and implementation services. The public comment form can be accessed here.
  • Legislative Session & Interim Committees: The Authority is submitting its second report regarding site evaluations ahead of its due date this weekend.
  • Elko Institute of Academic Achievement’s (EIAA) New Facility: EIAA is deferring its application for its new facility for the 2023-2024 school year due to construction costs. Explore the memo here.
  • Doral Academy of Northern Nevada’s New Campus: The SPCSA approved Doral Academy’s second campus, which included specific conditions which needed to be met by September 30. The Doral Academy Board met and declined to adopt those policies.
  • Initial Action Steps in Response to 2021-22 Sponsor Survey Results: Updates will be made to communications on key topics and the Authority will also be improving its regular Wednesday email. It will also publish upcoming grant timelines, will continue building out a library of resources in Canvas, and will continue to improve communications regarding annual reporting requirements, among other changes to take place. View the briefing memo here.
  • New School Application Process: Staff is currently in the process of evaluating four applications, and recently completed interviews; staff will be bringing recommendations to the August 29 Board meeting. Explore the update document here.
  • 2022-23 School Year Site Evaluations: Slight changes will be made to the site evaluation manual and will be brought to the Board at the August meeting. Explore the list here.

Board Received an Update on New Charter Schools for the 2022-2023 School Year

  • Battle Born Academy: Recruitment has seen dramatic progress in the last several weeks, with 143 students enrolled as of the Board meeting. More than 200 families attended the school’s open house this week, and the facility is ready to open August 8. Explore the update for Battle Born Academy.
  • PilotED – Cactus Park Elementary: The school’s permanent facility received its permit, with an anticipated Temporary Certificate of Occupancy of October 13, 2022; the temporary facility is ready to open August 8. There are about 240 active applications for 200 available seats. Its open house is next week. Explore the update for Cactus Park Elementary.
  • Sage Collegiate: As shared in the update, there is a small issue with the facilities, and the start date for the school is August 15, aligning with several other regional charter schools. 244 students are enrolled, and the wait list continues to grow. The school continues to host and take part in community events, and family orientation events are taking place at Discovery Children’s Museum and at the West Charleston Library. Explore the update for Sage Collegiate.
  • Strong Start Academy: The SPCSA walk-through was conducted earlier this week. Kindergarten is currently full, with some space in Grades 1 and 2 available. Community outreach is ongoing. The facility is undergoing its final inspections to open on August 8.
  • Young Women’s Leadership Academy: The school is 90% enrolled, with about 100 scholars. A wait list has been established for ninth grade students. A meet-the-team event for families has been scheduled. Construction delays have occurred at the school facility, and the school is requesting a good cause exemption to start the school year at a temporary facility, located at the Boys and Girls Club on Cottage Grove Ave. Explore the update for Young Women’s Leadership Academy.

Charter School Contract Amendment Applications

Nevada Virtual Academy was approved to relocate to a new facility, located at 8645 S. Eastern Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89123, with a tentative approval of the Special Use Permit and Certificate of Occupancy slated for September 20, 2022.

Explore the good cause exemption letter and the recommendation memo.

Young Women’s Leadership Academy was approved to relocate to a temporary facility to start the 2022-2023 school year, located at the Boys and Girls Club located at 920 Cottage Grove Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89119.

Explore the amendment application and the recommendation memo.

Board Received an Update on Nevada Connections Academy

Nevada Connections Academy presented unofficial results from its performance framework targets relating to ACT scores (6.5 for reading, 2 for math, and 2.5 for science), graduation rates (86.1% for four-year rates, and 81% for five-year rates), college and career readiness, student engagement, English language proficiency, and star rating. It also reviewed the school’s 2022-2023 school year goals, including assignment choice, student goals, essential standards, grading feedback, and events and community engagement opportunities.

Explore the presentation.

Board Approved the Updates to the SPCSA’s Local Plan for the Safe Return to In-Person Instruction and Continuity of Services

The Board approved changes to the SPCSA’s Plan for the Safe Return to In-Person Instruction, as required by the American Rescue Plan. Changes include additional information and context on guardrails and oversight, additional information relating to COVID-19 testing support, approach to COVID-19 given the State of Emergency has ended, additional information relating to masks and mitigation measures, updated information on Multi-Tiered Systems of Support, and training to be provided during the 2022-2023 school year.

Explore the plan.

Board Received an Update on the Charter School Renewal Process

Staff reviewed key renewal dates and timeline, as well as the general approach to recommendations for renewal. Staff outlined the information and data used to make these recommendations, including academic and organizational performance, financial performance, site evaluation findings, and other information provided in the renewal application.

Explore the presentation.

Long-Range Calendar (next 3 months):

Agenda items over the next three SPCSA board meetings are anticipated to include:

  • Charter school applications
  • Academic Performance Framework
  • Growth management plan
  • School board demographics
  • 2023 SPCSA board meeting calendar

Explore the long-range calendar.

Public Comment #2

  • Retaliation against a student at a charter school facility

The next Meeting of the SPCSA Board is scheduled for Monday, August 29, 2022 @ 9:00 a.m. 

Sign up to receive a notification when a new Ed-Watch post is published:

Nevada Ed-Watch: 06/27/22

Posted on by Opportunity 180

The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.

State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA)

What is the SPCSA & what are they responsible for? Considered one of Nevada’s school districts, the SPCSA sponsors and oversees public charter schools. The Authority consists of seven appointed members responsible for overseeing educational and operational standards and holding sponsored schools accountable to the academic achievement of students. 

How often does the SPCSA Board meet? The SPCSA typically meets once a month, generally on Fridays. 

Click here for SPCSA meeting schedule and materials.

Can community members engage at SPCSA Board Meetings? While all meetings of the SPCSA are typically held publicly at the Nevada Department of Education building in Carson City and the Nevada Department of Education building in Las Vegas (1st floor boardroom), all meetings are now held virtually due to the COVID-19 crisis. Members of the public may view the meeting online via the link on the SPCSA’s Public Notice web page and the agenda and any supporting materials can be found here. Public comment may be given on any agenda item at the beginning of the meeting, or public comment regarding any matter that is SPCSA-related may be given at the conclusion of each Board meeting. Members of the community giving public comment can utilize the following conference call line: 1-312-584-2401; extension 3952176# with a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Alternatively, public comment may be submitted in writing to publiccomment@spcsa.nv.gov, and any such public comment received prior to the meeting will be provided to the Authority and included in the written minutes of the meeting.

Click here for a list of all SPCSA Members.
Click here for a list of all SPCSA sponsored schools.

Monday, June 27, 2022
State Public Charter School Authority Board Meeting
Access the meeting agenda and playback.

What happened at this meeting? 

Public comment 

No public comment was heard at this time.

SPCSA Executive Director’s Report

Highlights from the report include:

  • Initiatives Related to Serving All Students Equitably: Certain schools must submit recruitment and enrollment plans by September 30. Staff conducted their first optional virtual working session this month, with two additional sessions planned for the summer. Staff also participated in a Restorative Justice training and are planning to offer optional training this summer and in 2023.
  • COVID-19 Update: SPCSA is required to continue to maintain the Safe Return to In-Person Learning Plan  through September 30, and the Board will receive an update on plans in July.
  • Legislative Session Planning: The committee is continuing monthly meetings, and SPCSA has been engaged in the process. There are two meetings through the end of this interim period; the final meeting is an opportunity to identify legislative topics.
  • Budget: The Authority is on track to submit its budget by the end of August, and is working with the Governor’s finance office on answering requests related to staffing increases.
  • Update on New Schools Opening in Fall 2022: 
    • Coral Academy of Science: The Cadence campus is on track to open mid-August, and will be ready by mid-July to allow the school to prep for its first day. It will provide an update on recruitment/enrollment at the July meeting.
    • Nevada State High School – NLV Campus:  The campus has received its certificate of occupancy and is ready to welcome students.  
  • Language Access Plan: Pursuant to SB 318, staff must develop and biannually revise this plan providing services for constituents with limited English proficiency. The Authority is currently drafting the plan, to be posted over the summer for public comment in July. It is also working to make the website more accessible to those with limited English proficiency, including translation services.
  • 2022 SPCSA Sponsor Survey: The survey was conducted 5/11 – 6/5, with responses from 30 school leaders representing 26 of 38 charter schools. Input was measured in four areas: communication, authorizing, school support, and grants. Explore the survey results memo and the feedback survey.
  • Staffing Update: Marinna Cutler is the new Director of School Support for the SPCSA, and the Authority is filling a few additional positions to reach a total of 27 full-time staff.

Board Received a Presentation Regarding Governance Standards, Pursuant to Assembly Bill 419

The first governance standards training was held in June, with approximately 250 school board members from about 50 schools. Three additional trainings are scheduled this summer, and a process has been established to approve other organizations to provide this type of training based upon standards approved by the Authority. During the presentation, a Board member provided an overview of Standard 3: Managing Financial Resources responsibly.

Explore the governance standards here.

Board Discussed the Impact of Weighted Lotteries

Staff provided an overview on weighted lotteries and their role in improving access to educationally disadvantaged students. Such lotteries can be used in favor of identified student groups, such as those who are economically disadvantaged, those with disabilities, and/or those with limited English proficiency, among others. Seven SPCSA charters/24 campuses have a weighted lottery policy in place, with 21 campuses having more applications than seats available. Results varied from school to school and are detailed in the memo (available at the link below). Staff noted in the memo that while impact varies, weighted lotteries will not singlehandedly address the discrepancies in such demographics.

Explore the briefing memo here.

Charter School Contract Amendment Applications

Girls Athletic Leadership School was approved for changes to the school name, mission and vision, as well as modifications to academic and organizational plans and a reduction on its enrollment caps for the duration of the charter term. These changes are mostly due to terminating the contract with GALS Inc. and COVID-related recruitment strain. Its new name will be Girls Empowerment Middle School (GEMS). The school’s mission, values, and driving force will remain the same.

Explore the good cause exemption letter and the recommendation memo.

Explore Academy was approved for a reduction in its enrollment cap from 510 to 355 students and will be moving to its permanent facility this year.

Explore the good cause exemption letter and the recommendation memo.

PilotED Cactus Park Elementary was conditionally approved to remove its student transportation plan for the 2022-2023 school year and operate at a temporary location at Nevada Prep for the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year.

Explore the good cause exemption letter and the recommendation memo.

Quest Academy was approved for a reduction of its enrollment cap from 565 to 500 students for the 2022-2023 school year.

Explore the good cause exemption letter and the recommendation memo.

Strong Start Academy was approved for a relocation for the 2022-2023 school year, so all students and faculty are located in one permanent facility. The facility is the site of the 9th Bridge School, at 302 S. 9th St.

Explore the good cause exemption letter and the recommendation memo.

Young Women’s Leadership Academy was approved for a reduction of its enrollment cap from 150 to 110 students for the 2022-2023 school year.

Explore the recommendation memo.

Doral Academy of Northern Nevada was approved for an additional K-8 campus for the 2023-2024 school year, primarily serving students in 89502 and 89431 zip codes.

Explore the recommendation memo.

Explore charter applications, budgets, and additional materials here.

Board Heard an Update on Approved New Charter Schools for Fall 2022

  • Battle Born Academy: The school is approved to open, serving grades K-1 and 5-6, and will be temporarily located in the Equipo Academy facility. Thirty-eight percent of seats have been enrolled, with an additional 10% in the enrollment process. Explore the update.
  • Sage Collegiate: The school facilities are scheduled to open on time. Current enrollment is at 244, and a waitlist has started in four grade levels. Grassroots efforts have continued and ramped up through several community partnerships. Explore the update.
  • PilotED Cactus Park Elementary: All updates have been included in the charter school contract amendment application above.
  • Young Women’s Leadership Academy: The school is 61% fully enrolled, with several recruitment events coming up and in the past few months. The school continues to hire for roles in math and science, as well as other positions, and has increased teacher salaries to be equitable with wages at the local school district. Explore the update.
  • Strong Start Academy: The lease agreement on the facility has been executed, and the City of Las Vegas is in the process of purchasing the 9th Bridge building for a permanent facility.  Seventy-eight students have been enrolled thus far, and teacher recruitment continues. Explore the update.

Board Approved Revisions to the SPCSA Academic Performance Framework and Organizational Framework:

The Board approved a number of proposed changes, including those to SPCSA Academic Framework performance level rating requirements to fulfill its obligation and responsibility to provide Academic Performance Framework results for SPCSA-sponsored schools; and using a 64% Free and Reduced Lunch (FRL) Student Enrollment Rate measure rate cap when an SPCSA school or zoned district participates in the USDA Community Eligibility Provision, or CEP, to support more accurate FRL rate comparisons between SPCSA schools and zoned districts.

Explore the presentation.

Changes to the SPCSA Organizational Framework included:

  • SPCSA staff verifying state assessment participation requirements through data collection processes and NDE, and as such, removing the measure from the self-certification checklist
  • Verifying schools’ governing bodies have completed training in Nevada’s Open Meeting Law and SPCSA Governance Standards
  • SPCSA staff verifying all applicable reporting requirements called for in the Reporting Requirements Manual, and as such, removing the measure from the self-certification checklist
  • SPCSA staff verifying that a school is in material compliance with student attendance requirements and as such, removing the measure from the self-certification checklist
  • Revising language to Indicator 4, Measure 16 to clarify that “the school has no known outstanding obligations with regard to payroll, unemployment, ADA, FMLA, IRS, or other federal, state and local entities”
  • SPCSA staff verifying that a school is current with all Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) obligations and as such, removing the measure from the self-certification checklist
  • Adding language to include that all governing body members of a charter school maintain compliance with fingerprint requirements pursuant to NRS 388A.323.

Explore the presentation and supplemental materials.

Board Heard an Update on Site Evaluations for the 2021-2022 School year

All schools with a charter contract in Years 1, 3, or 5 were evaluated as scheduled, for a total of 42 site evaluations with 691 classrooms observed between September 2021 and May 2022. Identified strengths include implementing strategies aimed at closing opportunity gaps, meeting students’ social-emotional learning needs, implementing MTSS through SPCSA, and use of restorative justice practices to address behavioral issues. Challenges include opportunity gaps, regressive social-emotional behaviors, teacher shortages, post-COVID challenges like learning loss and chronic absenteeism, and serving the needs of vulnerable student groups.

Explore the presentation.

Long-Range Calendar (next 3 months):

Agenda items over the next three SPCSA board meetings are anticipated to include:

  • Safe return plan updates
  • New charter school applications
  • Academic Performance Framework

Explore the long-range calendar.

The next Meeting of the SPCSA Board is scheduled for July 29, 2022 @ 9:00 am. 

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Nevada Ed Watch: 5/20/2022

Posted on by Opportunity 180

The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.

State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA)

What is the SPCSA & what are they responsible for? Considered one of Nevada’s school districts, the SPCSA sponsors and oversees public charter schools. The Authority consists of seven appointed members responsible for overseeing educational and operational standards and holding sponsored schools accountable to the academic achievement of students. 

How often does the SPCSA Board meet? The SPCSA typically meets once a month, generally on Fridays. 

Click here for SPCSA meeting schedule and materials.

Can community members engage at SPCSA Board Meetings? While all meetings of the SPCSA are typically held publicly at the Nevada Department of Education building in Carson City and the Nevada Department of Education building in Las Vegas (1st floor boardroom), all meetings are now held virtually due to the COVID-19 crisis. Members of the public may view the meeting online via the link on the SPCSA’s Public Notice web page and the agenda and any supporting materials can be found here. Public comment may be given on any agenda item at the beginning of the meeting, or public comment regarding any matter that is SPCSA-related may be given at the conclusion of each Board meeting. Members of the community giving public comment can utilize the following conference call line: 1-312-584-2401; extension 3952176# with a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Alternatively, public comment may be submitted in writing to publiccomment@spcsa.nv.gov, and any such public comment received prior to the meeting will be provided to the Authority and included in the written minutes of the meeting.

Click here for a list of all SPCSA Members.
Click here for a list of all SPCSA sponsored schools.

Friday, May 20, 2022
State Public Charter School Authority Board Meeting
Access the meeting agenda and playback.

What happened at this meeting? 

Public comment 

Members of the public shared comments regarding retention of students of color and additional staff training as well as matters of student safety and substance use at Legacy Traditional School.

SPCSA Charter School Governing Body Governance Standards.

The board will return to this agenda item during the June 27 meeting.

Explore the SPCSA Governance Standards.

SPCSA Executive Director’s Report

Highlights from the report include:

  • Initiatives Related to Serving All Students Equitably: Last month the Authority voted to require certain schools to submit recruitment and enrollment plans by September 30, 2022.  The plans must include specific strategies aimed at serving a student population representative of the school community, particularly those qualifying for free and reduced lunch. SPCSA staff issued guidance to the selected schools for developing their plans, with a suggested process that includes a data review, root cause analysis, and identification of strategies. Three optional virtual working sessions will be offered to support the schools with this process.
  • COVID-19 Update: Governor Sisolak formally ended the COVID-19 State of Emergency effective Friday, March 20. All SPCSA-sponsored schools, except those approved as fully distance learning schools, will return to in-person learning. Emergency substitutes will be phased out in Washoe and Clark Counties for the 2022-23 school year but will be permitted in rural communities. The provision that allows a registered nurse to oversee the COVID-19 testing lab for SPCSA schools will expire with the State of Emergency. The SPCSA is looking for a certified director with the approved credentials to continue to keep the lab open. If they are unable to hire one, SPCSA staff will transition schools to other COVID testing programs. The Safe Return to In-Person Learning Plan will remain in place through September 30, 2023.
  • New Charter School Applications: Charter school applications are due between April 15-30 each year. This year, five applicants applied, including four schools in Clark County: Mind Your Books (K-8), Rooted School (9-12), Southern Nevada Trades High School (9-12) and The Village High School (9-12). The fifth school, Method Schools of NV, withdrew their application. The next step will include external review of the applications with recommendations brought to the Authority in August. Full applications are posted on the SPCSA website and are open for public comment. One member of the Authority requested first year enrollment for the new schools, which will be available in the posted applications’ enrollment tables.
  • 2022 Sponsor Feedback Survey: Last week, SPCSA launched its annual sponsor feedback survey to SPCSA-sponsored charter school leaders, which measures dimensions such as communications with SPCSA staff, the authorizing functions, and school and grant administration support functions. The survey will remain open for one month. The results will be shared at an upcoming meeting. Thus far, 11 respondents have taken the survey.
  • Update on New Schools Opening in Fall 2022: 
    • Battle Born Academy will open with 240 students in grades K, 1, 5 and 6.  The Authority approved the school’s temporary location. With necessary modifications on track, the certificate of occupancy is expected by July 8, 2022. 
    • Sage Collegiate will open with 224 students in grades K-5. Work is being completed on the facility, but construction timelines are tight, so the school is working on contingency plans. 
    • PilotED – Cactus Park Elementary will open with 351 in grades K-4. The school is working to close the gap in enrollment paperwork.  Work is being completed on the facility, but construction timelines are tight, so the school is working on contingency plans. 
    • Young Women’s Leadership Academy will open with a planned enrollment of 150 across grades 6-9. 
    • Strong Start Academy is opening K-2 with 180 students. Through a partnership with the City of Las Vegas, the school will open in the City’s three Pre-K centers and then to partner with the City to transition to a single site facility long term. 

      Each school is on track to open in Fall 2022. In early June, enrollment audits will be conducted, which will result in initial funding.  Per pupil funding will be reconciled for schools in November.  Additionally, from a facility perspective, schools will be required to provide evidence of temporary or permanent certificate of occupancy after which SPCSA staff will perform walkthroughs of the facilities.

Charter School Contract Amendment Applications

Discovery Charter School requested a good cause exemption and received approval to acquire the current facility at Hillpoint Campus to accommodate a waitlist exceeding 220 students.

Explore Discovery Charter School’s good cause exemption request and charter amendment application.

Eagle Charter School was approved for a new location at 2025 East Sahara, which is located in the previously approved zip code of 89104. The school anticipates the majority of enrollment to come from this zip code. A Restaurant Depot is currently located in the facility. 

Explore Eagle Charter School’s good cause exemption request and charter amendment application. 

Additional materials including each school’s budget and SPCSA recommendation memo can be found here.

Board Approved Revolving Loan Application for Sage Collegiate

Sage Collegiate provided SPCSA staff with a business plan and budget which indicated they would have sufficient funds to make the repayments. Based on this analysis, SPCSA staff recommended approval of the loan, according to repayment terms in the memo.   

Explore the Sage Collegiate recommendation memo and revolving loan request.

Board Approved Good Cause Exemption for Pioneer Technology & Arts Academy Nevada

The board approved PTAA Nevada’s request for a good cause exemption to submit a new charter school application outside of the usual application window. Recent revisions to administrative code NAC 388A.260 changed the deadlines for new charter applications from two charter application windows to a single window in April of each year.  The code also gives the SPCSA authority to accept an application outside of the annual window upon request and for good cause.

PTAA would submit notice of intent by May 30, 2022, and would then submit an application toward the end of August 2022, which would come to the Authority for approval in December 2022.  Staff found good cause to approve submission outside of the April window, also noting that submitting next April would generate approval too late to open in Fall 2023 as planned.  

The board also heard updates on ongoing litigation. PTAA filed two lawsuits against the Authority – one of which will be dismissed, and no action will be taken on the second in the next 30 days.

Members of the board shared thoughts on the school’s decision to move forward with a new application as well as the need for both the school and the Authority to reflect on their own process and that the process be balanced on both sides. 

Explore the PTAA recommendation memo and request for good cause exemption.

Long-Range Calendar (next 3 months):

Agenda items over the next three SPCSA board meetings are anticipated to include:

  • Calendar updates due to virtual meetings – the June meeting will be on Monday, June 27 and the August meeting will be on Monday, August 29.
  • Amendment applications on the June meeting agenda.

Explore the long-range calendar.

The next Meeting of the SPCSA Board is scheduled for June 27, 2022 @ 9:00 am. 

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Nevada Ed-Watch: 4/15/22

Posted on by Opportunity 180

The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.

State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA)

What is the SPCSA & what are they responsible for? Considered one of Nevada’s school districts, the SPCSA sponsors and oversees public charter schools. The Authority consists of seven appointed members responsible for overseeing educational and operational standards and holding sponsored schools accountable to the academic achievement of students. 

How often does the SPCSA Board meet? The SPCSA typically meets once a month, generally on Fridays. 

Click here for SPCSA meeting schedule and materials.

Can community members engage at SPCSA Board Meetings? While all meetings of the SPCSA are typically held publicly at the Nevada Department of Education building in Carson City and the Nevada Department of Education building in Las Vegas (1st floor boardroom), all meetings are now held virtually due to the COVID-19 crisis. Members of the public may view the meeting online via the link on the SPCSA’s Public Notice web page and the agenda and any supporting materials can be found here. Public comment may be given on any agenda item at the beginning of the meeting, or public comment regarding any matter that is SPCSA-related may be given at the conclusion of each Board meeting. Members of the community giving public comment can utilize the following conference call line: 1-312-584-2401; extension 3952176# with a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Alternatively, public comment may be submitted in writing to publiccomment@spcsa.nv.gov, and any such public comment received prior to the meeting will be provided to the Authority and included in the written minutes of the meeting.

Click here for a list of all SPCSA Members.
Click here for a list of all SPCSA sponsored schools.

Friday, April 15, 2022
State Public Charter School Authority Board Meeting
Access the meeting agenda and playback.

What happened at this meeting? 

Public comment 

Public comment was provided on FMLA and personnel concerns.

SPCSA Executive Director’s Report

Highlights from the report include:

  • Student Equity: Last month, Nevada Prep presented its transportation plan, and this month, the Board will hear about how Beacon Academy serves students with special needs. The agency is continuing discussions around recruitment and enrollment plans to serve certain student populations and promote equitable learning environments.
  • Impacts of COVID-19: The focus is on ensuring schools have access to testing, and schools continue to evolve their COVID plans.
  • Legislative Updates: At the Interim Finance Committee, the SPCSA shared routine adjustments to grant amounts and requested two additional positions, both of which were approved.
  • Budget Prep: The agency is working on budget preparation for the next fiscal year.
  • Annual Enrollment Count: Last year’s annual enrollment data had errors identified; none were specific to SPCSA, but they are working to incorporate those minor technical corrections in SPCSA documents.

Board Heard an Update on Beacon Academy of Nevada

Beacon Academy of Nevada discussed its alternative school model, which offers at-risk high school students with a personalized education plan that provides the support and flexibility for students to graduate high school. 95% of its students fall into a high-need category. The school currently has 95 students and operates on continuous enrollment and have not turned away any students at this point. The school was accredited by COGNIA in 2022, as well. Staff provided updates on credit earning rates, graduation rates by cohort, and next steps for the school.

Explore the presentation.

Board Approved Amendments to Charter School Contracts

Beacon Academy of Nevada requested a good cause exemption and received approval to accelerate financing for its East campus.

Explore Beacon Academy’s good cause exemption letter and charter amendment application. The budget workbook, amortization schedule, and the enrollment workbook can be found here.

Girls Athletic Leadership School (GALS) was approved for a change in its charter management organization. It was approved to formally separate GALS Las Vegas from GALS Inc. and terminate its CMO agreement.

Explore the GALS recommendation memo and Notice of Termination of Contract with GALS Inc.

Battle Born Academy received approval for a temporary location for the 2022-2023 school year, at 4201 E. Bonanza Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89110.

Explore the Battle Born Academy recommendation memo and good cause exemption letter.

Board Heard an Update on Approved New Charter Schools for Fall 2022

Battle Born Academy: The school has secured a temporary facility and has submitted an updated budget, as well as received approval for an SPCSA revolving loan. Enrollment has reached about 50% and is expected to rise with the announcement of the temporary location. The school hired an Operations Director in March, as well as a full-time counselor, and is still looking for professionals in the fields of special education and ESL.

Explore the update from Battle Born Academy.

Sage Collegiate: The school is 59.4% enrolled and will begin canvassing the community in May. The facility is on track to open for the 2022-23 school year but are working on contingency plans. The school is hosting a career fair with several other charter schools on April 23.

Explore the update from Sage Collegiate.

PilotED – Cactus Park Elementary: Enrollment for the school is at 40%, and the faacility is two weeks ahead of schedule. It is 80% staffed for admin and leadership positions, 13% for teaching positions, with additional interviews taking place this month.

Explore the update from PilotED.

Young Women’s Leadership Academy: The school is 60% enrolled, with recruitment events continuing throughout April. They are also making progress with staff recruitment efforts.

Explore the update from Young Women’s Leadership Academy.

Strong Start Academy: The school is 90% enrolled in kindergarten, and 20% in Grades 1 and 2. Upcoming recruitment marketing will focus on Grades 1 and 2, and the school has established a weighted lottery system, should enrollment exceed capacity. Vendor contracts have been executed, and the City of Las Vegas is in the process of transferring funds and has also made an offer on a permanent facility. At an upcoming City Council meeting, the school will move to increase the number of board seats to nine, to ensure each ward served by the school is represented.

Board Approved a Recommendation for School to Submit Recruitment and Enrollment Plans

SPCSA presented a recommendation for schools to submit recruitment and enrollment plans in progress of increasing populations of FRL, ESL, and IEP students served. The recommendation presented included focusing on the FRL student group, as this population represented the greatest disparity, and identifying schools by comparing school FRL percentage to local district schools with the largest FRL rates. Schools making adequate progress (at least 25% increase in the enrollment of students who qualify for FRL in the prior year) were removed from the list. This process resulted in 14 schools being identified to submit recruitment and enrollment plans.

These enrollment plans include staff issuing guidance to the identified schools. Plans would need to be submitted in September 2022 and should detail recruiting and enrolling students who quality for FRL (but the schools can also explore other student groups). Strategies in the plan should fall under at least one of the following categories:

  • Raising awareness
  • Ensuring the school provides a welcoming and supportive environment for all learners, or
  • Increasing the likelihood that such students are selected through the enrollment process.

SPCSA staff will provide feedback and regular updates, and schools will implement plans and provide SPCSA staff with data regarding the effectiveness of those strategies.

Board discussion included questions on monitoring, other state models, and school feedback on the process.

Explore the recommendation memo and SPCSA FRL data.

Board Heard an Update on the SPCSA Growth Management Plan

Staff held a meeting with a community working group to review the current version of the Growth Management Plan. The updated plan will be brought to the Board in June.

Long-Range Calendar (next 3 months):

Agenda items over the next three SPCSA board meetings are anticipated to include:

  • The Growth Management Plan
  • Enrollment and staffing data reporting for new schools

Click here to see the long-range calendar.

The next Meeting of the SPCSA Board is scheduled for May 20, 2022 @ 9:00 am. 

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