Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about DC public charter schools.
What is a public charter school?
DC public charter schools are tuition-free public schools that operate independently from DCPS. They are open to all DC students through a lottery, publicly funded, and held accountable for academic performance and organizational health. Each school develops its own curriculum, culture, and teaching approach while meeting rigorous standards set by DC PCSB.
How can I find a public charter school?
Please find a complete listing of DC public charter schools on our School Profiles page.
What is a charter review or renewal?
Visit our Policies page Charter Reviews and Renewals section for more information about the reviews, renewals, the process, and guidelines.
How do I submit testimony for public comment?
Testimony for Board Meetings is available on our Board Meetings & Public Comment page.
What is the ASPIRE System, and how is it being used to assess schools?
ASPIRE stands for Annual School Performance Index Report & Evaluation. Simply put, ASPIRE means achieving excellent schools for all students, particularly those from communities which have been historically marginalized. ASPIRE has five main frameworks, which are separated based on the grade bands that a school serves: PK-Only, PK-8, High School, Adult, and Alternative.
For more information, visit the ASPIRE page.
What is the DC School Reform Act?
The DC School Reform Act, or SRA, refers to D.C. Code §§ 38-1802 et seq., which established public charter schools in DC. Read the SRA here.
Where can I find my student records?
If your public charter school is currently open, please contact your school’s registrar directly to request all school records, report cards, transcripts, and high school diplomas.
If your public charter school is closed, DC PCSB manages student records for permanently closed public charter schools in Washington, DC. To request school records, report cards, transcripts, or a high school diploma from a closed school, order records here.
Where can I find my employment records?
If you are a former employee (or a third party) seeking employment verification for a permanently closed DC public charter school, please submit your request using this form.
Where can find financial information about public charter schools?
You can find financial information—along with details on school reviews, budgets, academic oversight, and organizational data—in our Transparency Hub, which answers most commonly asked questions.