Charter School Choice
Does the state have charter schools?
Are for-profit charter schools or management companies allowed?
A charter school must organize as a non-profit: "Each charter school shall organize as a nonprofit corporation pursuant to the "Colorado Nonprofit Corporation Act", articles 121 to 137 of title 7, C.R.S..."
However, "[a]n entity that holds a charter...may choose to contract with an education management provider, which education management provider may be a for-profit, a nonprofit, or a not-for-profit entity, so long as the charter school maintains a governing board that is independent of the education management provider."
22-30.5-104(4)(a-b): Charter school - requirements - authority - rules - definitions
Is there a cap on the number of charter schools?
We did not find information about caps on charter schools in Colorado statutes. A policy expert in Colorado confirmed that there is no mention of charter school caps in Colorado statutes. The expert indicated that the lack of a statute means that, in practice, there are no caps on charter schools in Colorado. Education Commission of the States states that Colorado does not have caps on charters.
Are charters required to provide transportation for any students?
Charter schools may choose not to provide transportation.
Can charter schools employ uncertified teachers?
District and charter teachers must hold an initial or a professional teacher's license or authorization issued pursuant to the provisions of article 60.5 of this title, unless the school or district has received a waiver from this provision.
Virtual School Choice
Do state statutes allow for full-time virtual schools?
Colorado statutes allow for online schools and online programs.
Are virtual schools required to track attendance?
Students in online programs/schools are subject to compulsory school attendance as provided in article 33 of this title: each online program and online school must document a student's compliance with compulsory attendance requirements by documenting the student's attendance.
Do virtual schools have to comply with state teacher certification requirements?
Supplemental online courses must be taught by a teacher who is licensed pursuant to article 60.5 of this title.
22-5-119.(3)(j)(I): Statewide supplemental online and blended learning program
Private School Choice
Does the state have voucher programs?
Does the state have educational expense tuition tax credits or deductions?
Can students use vouchers to attend religious schools?
Is there a cap on the number of students or private schools participating in voucher programs?
Are voucher students in private schools required to take any standardized tests?
Can private schools be removed from voucher programs based on performance?
Are private schools in voucher programs required to provide transportation?
Interdistrict School Choice
Does the state have interdistrict choice programs?
Every district shall allow "nonresident pupils from other school districts within the state who apply pursuant to the procedures established pursuant to subsection (2) of this section to enroll in particular programs or schools within such school district without requiring the nonresident pupils to pay tuition."
22-36-101(1)(b): Choice of programs and schools within school districts