Some charter schools have found that some states that granted a lot of autonomy did not require much accountability. These so-called expansive laws do not guarantee the extension of the charter if a school does well, but they also do not close a charter school if students are performing poorly, the school staffs told researchers from the University of Southern California. The tighter the application process, the more stable the school, she reports. Yet the USC researchers also point out that schools with higher levels of autonomy are more successful. While analysis of charter school autonomy focused on freedom from collective bargaining and regulations, one stumbling block was left in place by most states, according to Eric Premack, Charter Schools Project Director at the California State University Institute for Education Reform.
Most states require charter school applicants to go through their school district for approval.
It is an issue also stressed by Alex Medler, former Education Commission of the States policy analyst, in a recent paper. Medler is now working for the U.S. Department of Education to develop its charter school program. He recommends that states allow alternative sponsors to school boards. Five states allow universities and colleges to grant charters. Others give authority to the state commissioner or board.