Pre-startup funding

There are some funding sources that are available to charter schools prior to opening. Both CDE and The League offer grant support and information to developing groups. However, most funding is available from the Per Pupil Revenues (PPR) that are allocated to charters after they open. PPR Funding is based on the October 1 count day total enrollment for the school, and is figured according to funding formulas. It is important to pursue other funding sources, yet to be realistic in budget assumptions that do not depend on ongoing grants in order for a school to remain solvent.

The Colorado Department of Education's Schools of Choice (SOC) Unit administers the federal Charter School Program (No Child Left Behind, Title V, Part B) grant for the state. The CDE website also offers many resources that explain funding sources that charter schools may access. You may access these at http://www.cde.state.co.us/cdechart/GrantPrograms.htm

The League offers a number of services to help connect new and developing charter schools with critical planning/start-up funding needed to produce high-quality schools. For example, the League's Grant Partners Program administers planning and start-up grants on behalf of the Walton Family Foundation and other funders. Some grants are restricted to planned new schools with a high percentage of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. As grant requirements change often, be sure to contact the League's New School Development department to determine eligibility.