About
Charter Schools
What is a Charter School?
A charter school is a public school granted greater flexibility in its operations and founded by one or more individuals. Additionally, charter schools are created to provide additional academic choices for parents and scholars.
Leman Academy of Excellence is an independently operated, tuition-free public charter school with open-admission policies.
Is Leman Academy Part Of A School District?
In Arizona
Leman Academy of Excellence is its own educational institution and therefore is not part of a school district. This means Leman Academy does not follow the school calendar, policies, or curriculum of other schools or school districts. Leman Academy abides by the rules and regulations set forth by the Department of Education and State Board for Charter Schools and reports directly to these two groups. Most importantly, there are no boundaries regulating scholar enrollment to attend Leman Academy of Excellence. Therefore, scholars may attend Leman Academy regardless of their address or location.
In Colorado
Leman Academy of Excellence is chartered through the Douglas County School District (DCSD) and is considered a charter school of that school district. However, Leman Academy of Excellence – Parker is managed by an independent, non-profit Board. Leman Academy abides by the rules and regulations set forth by DCSD and delineated in the charter contract between the independent, non-profit board and the school district. Scholars of DCSD have preference in the LAE lottery over scholars from other districts.
What Is the Difference Between Charter Schools and Other Public Schools?
Charter schools are public schools of choice, meaning that families choose them for their children. They operate with freedom from some of the regulations that are imposed upon school districts. Charter schools are accountable for academic results and for upholding the promises made in their charters. They must demonstrate performance in the areas of academic achievement, financial management, and organizational stability.
What Rules Must Charter Schools Follow?
Leman Academy of Excellence follows the state-mandated rules and regulations and reports to the Department of Education and State Board. As a public charter school Leman Academy:
- Completes financial audits each year.
- Provides a free education to all enrolled children.
- Holds children accountable for school attendance.
- Administers the state-mandated standardized tests.
- Does not charge tuition for enrollment or attendance.
- Adopts a school calendar according to the state guidelines.
- Keeps copies of employee fingerprint clearance cards on file.
- Implements the state standards within the school’s curriculum.
- Provides services to children in the special education program per their IEP’s.