Start a Charter School
DC PCSB announces a new timeline for the 2026 New School Charter Application Cycle. Most importantly, we will shift the cycle to the fall while lengthening the planning year.
Application Process
Approving or denying applications for new charter schools is among the important things we do as an authorizer. These decisions shape the quality, quantity, and types of schools students can access. We believe the updated process will increase the quality of applications, lead to stronger openings, and facilitate thoughtful engagement. These changes also align with recent guidance from the National Association of Charter School Authorizers (NACSA) and DC PCSB policies. For example, NACSA recommends holding “pitch meetings” where the authorizer provides preliminary feedback to the founding team.
For questions, please contact [email protected].
Timeline of Application Process
The following timeline represents the external-facing events comprising the 2026 Charter Application Dates are subject to change based on scheduling needs. All times are for Eastern Time (ET). No applications were received.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Release 2026 Charter Application Guidelines | April 7, 2026 |
| Informational sessions | April 22 – 30, 2026 |
| Letters of intent due | June 8, 2026 at 9 a.m. |
| Pitch meetings with applicants who submitted letters | June 12 – 26, 2026 |
| Written applications due | September 11, 2026 at 9 a.m. |
| Site visits, if applicable | September 23 – October 23, 2026 |
| Capacity interviews | September 29 – 30, 2026 |
| Public hearing on new school applications | October 26, 2026 |
| Vote on new school applications | November 30, 2026 |
| Release decision letters | December 9, 2026 |
Charter Applications Archive
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