North Dakota Public Charter Schools Bill Passes House, Heads Back to Senate

BISMARCK, N.D. (KVRR/KFGO) — A bill to establish public charter schools in North Dakota has passed the House on a 64-29 vote.

These schools would be under the same regulations as public schools, but operate outside the school district and be administered by their own internal governing boards.

The sponsor says some rural schools at risk of closing could reorganize as a public charter.

They would not be able to charge tuition or teach religious curriculum or use the state’s school building fund.

“I don’t think we should have parents drop their kids off and expect public schools will just figure it out for them. I think parents need to be involved, need to be engaged and I think this public charter schools another option that does that, said Republican Rep. Ben Koppelman of West Fargo.

The bill will now travel back to the Senate to concur with the House’s amended bill.

If approved, it will go to the governor.