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Upcoming Dates of Note:
See below for details
- March 14th - Help Shape the Future of Our Schools: 'Mo Wants to Know' Listening Session
- March 18th - OCS March Office Hour: Charter Application Amendments and Remote Charter Academies
- April 3rd- Early bird registration for the North Carolina Association for Public Charter Schools Conference closes.
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CSRB will be discussing revisions to the next iteration of the NC charter school application (2026) at its upcoming meetings in March, April, and May. If you would like to submit public comment regarding the same, please see the attached agenda item for instructions.
OCS March Office Hour: Charter Application Amendments and Remote Charter Academies
How do you know when changing a piece of your charter application requires OCS or CSRB approval? Have you considered an amendment for a Remote Charter Academy?
Join us to learn when and how to make an amendment request! Information about the application process for adding a Remote Charter Academy (RCA) to your currently operating charter school will also be shared. Bruce Friend, CSRB Chair and school leader who is currently running an RCA, will be in attendance to share and answer questions.
March 18 at 9 am.
For questions, contact Julie Whetzel at julie.whetzel@dpi.nc.gov
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2025 NC Charter Applications
The 2025 NC Charter School Application opened on Friday, January 31st, at 5 PM (EST) and will close on April 25, 2025, at 5 PM (EDT). Applicants interested in opening a charter school in 2026 under the accelerated timeline or in 2027 under the standard timeline must submit their charter application and payment by the April 25, 2025, deadline.
The online application and $1,000 application fee must be submitted by April 25, 2025, at 5 PM (EDT).
Additionally, applicant boards must attend in-person interviews at the Department of Public Instruction in Raleigh, NC, during the monthly Charter Schools Review Board meetings starting in September 2025.
The 2025 NC Charter School application link will be posted on the NCDPI Charter Schools Application page.
For any questions regarding the charter application process, please contact Melanie.Rackley@dpi.nc.gov.
NCSIS Charter School Information
Phase I & II
We’re thrilled to announce the return of Charter Connect sessions, designed to support charter schools through the NCSIS transition.
Join Us for an In-Person Charter Connect Meeting!
Virtual Office Hours for Charter Schools
We’re also offering Charter School Virtual Office Hours twice a month to provide ongoing support and answer your questions.
We Value Your Feedback!
Help us better support you by completing the Charter School Feedback Survey. Your insights are essential in shaping the SIS Professional Learning Team’s support throughout the NCSIS transition.
🔗 Survey Link: 2025 Charter School Support Feedback Survey
We look forward to connecting with you!
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School Business March 6, 2025
The FBS website continues to be updated with information related to School Business and our ongoing operations. Please check the FBS homepage regularly for updates. Please review the upcoming deadlines for due dates.
Real Property Status Report - All PSUs
Uniform Guidance requires the award recipients to report on the real property acquired or real-property improvements made throughout the grant funding period for as long as federal interest is retained (2 CFR 200.330). In keeping with the requirements, please complete the relevant sections for each real property projects which were acquired, modified, and/or improved using ESSER I, ESSER II, and/or ESSER III funding. All PSUs that received ESSER I, II, or III funding are required to submit the survey.
The survey and template are posted on the FBS homepage under What’s New and are due by March 31, 2025. Per Uniform Guidance, reporting on the status of the real property is required annually. The completion of this questionnaire will be requested every year, starting in 2023 (2 CFR 200.330).
Note: For guidance on real property or equipment, please refer to NCDPI’s “Frequently Asked Fiscal Questions Related to ESSER and GEER, Includes Construction Related Questions.”
For compliance questions, contact albert.woelfle@dpi.nc.gov or brittany.mclaurin@dpi.nc.gov.
FY2024-25 Allotment Update - All PSUs
The following items of interest are scheduled for allotment by the end of the week:
- State Allotment Adjustments per finalized Certified Budget:
- PRC 0032 – Children with Disabilities
- PRC 0012 – Driver Training
- Initial Allotments of Approvals received-to-date
- Federal PRC 0111 – ESEA Title III, Part A - English Language Acquisition (Significant Increase)
FY2025-26 State Planning Allotments
Planning Allotment calculations are underway and expected to be posted online by March 14th.
If you have general allotment questions, please email allotments@dpi.nc.gov.
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Questions? Contact SBS
Deadline Reminders
ALL PSUs
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DUE DATE
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TOPIC
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NEWSLETTER
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3/31/25
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Hurricane Helene Technology Recovery Funds
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02/13/25
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IPS ONLY
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DUE DATE
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TOPIC
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NEWSLETTER
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03/14/25
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PPL Form for March Reimbursement
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10/10/24
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2025 RISE Back to School Safety Summit
The 2025 RISE Back to School Safety Summit will be held from Monday, July 28 to Wednesday, July 30 at the Statesville Civic Center in Statesville, N.C. The Center for Safer Schools is now accepting session proposals and sponsor applications.
If you or someone you know has a school safety workshop that would be appreciated by participants at the summit, please complete this form: https://forms.gle/ve1NQPqXFQqGGQij7
The submission deadline for both session proposals and sponsor applications is noon Friday, April 18, 2025, with notifications going out on or before Friday, May 9.
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CFSS BTAM Training Dates
Please see the attached document for Center for Safer Schools Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM) Virtual Trainings, In-Person Trainings, and BTAM office hours coming up in March, April, May, and June.
Questions about BTAM Training & Office Hours: Contact Dr. Stephanie Ellis, Assistant Director-Behavioral Health (email: sellis@ncsbi.gov).
Questions about Registration: Contact Charles Kinnin, Legislative and Communication Specialist (email: ckinnin@ncsbi.gov)
Registration for Regional Training for Charter School Arts Education Leaders, Arts Education District Leaders and Teacher Leadership Teams is Now Available.
Join the Office of Academic Standards K-12 Arts Education Consultants to learn how to lead unpacking guidance of the new K-12 Standards in Dance, General Music, Vocal & Instrumental Music, Theatre, Technical Theatre, and Visual Arts in your charter schools! It is advised that Charter Schools please send one individual who can best support the implementation of the new standards at their school. If serving multiple schools/grade bands and feel that an additional leader would be beneficial, please contact laura.stauderman@dpi.nc.gov or brandon.roeder@dpi.nc.gov to check on seating availability prior to registering. Leaders can register for any of the eight trainings should the one offered in their region not align with their schedules.
NC MTSS Secondary Support Updates & Release of Resources
We are pleased to share an update and release of resources for our NC MTSS Secondary Support and Research Project. Your IABS Team spent two years researching and working alongside district and school teams to provide a comprehensive view of MTSS installation and practices at the secondary levels in North Carolina.
Spring Science PD opportunity
Greetings Charter School leaders,
On behalf of the K-12 Science and K-12 Computer Science teams, I wanted to make sure you all were aware of a series of PD events that our two teams are collaborating to hold around the state. Please feel free to reach out to Charles Aiken (Charles.aiken@dpi.nc.gov) or Eli Hamrick (Eli.hamrick@dpi.nc.gov)
The K-12 Science and K-12 Computer Science Teams are excited to announce a joint two-day interactive session to model how to incorporate Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) and Computer Science standards into classroom instruction. Attendees will experience a three-dimensional approach to teaching and learning by investigating scientific phenomena. Participants will discuss how the three dimensions from A Framework for K-12 Science Education - Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCI), Science & Engineering Practices (SEP), and Crosscutting Concepts (CCC) - connect to the 2023 K-12 Science Standards and 2020 K-12 Computer Science Standards.
Each District can bring a team of five educators (K-2, 3-5, 6-8, Biology, and a School/District Instructional Leader) to the institute. Charter Schools can bring a team of 2 (classroom teacher and school leader). Participants should plan on attending both days.
The two-day institute is FREE and limited to the first 100 participants at each site. Up to 4 substitutes, for each day, will be provided for districts identified as low-performing for the 2023- 2024 school year. Funds for substitutes for additional districts will be provided as funds allow. Lunch will be provided for all participants both days.
Byte-Sized Science: Enhancing SEPs through Computer Science in K-12
Registration to all of four of the dates/sites for our Spring professional development. The registration link is below. Here is what we have so far...
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March 11-12 in Greensboro
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March 17-18 in Robeson County
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April 1-2 in Rutherford County -
Thank you for everything you are doing! Have a great week,
Respectfully,
Charles Aiken, Ed.D.
Section Chief
Mathematics, Science, and STEM
Office of Teaching and Learning
NC Department of Public Instruction
P: (984) 236-2837
charles.aiken@dpi.nc.gov
Upcoming ML/Title III Leaders Meeting
The NC DPI ML/Title III Team is excited for our ML/Title III Q3 Leaders Meeting! This in-person meeting will take place on March 26th, 2025, from 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM at two locations:
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West: Olive Hill Resource Center, 509 West Concord St. in Morganton
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East: Kathy Taft Center, 2010 Allen Rd. in Greenville
This meeting is intended for district and charter ML/Title III Leaders. We understand this is a busy time of year, so please let us know in the registration form whether you prefer the meeting to be one day or two days. Additionally, feel free to include any questions or topics you would like us to cover during the meeting.
- Prepare each student for the next phase in life
- Invest fully in public education
- Revere public school educators
- Enhance parent and community support and partnerships
- Ensure safe, secure learning environments
- Celebrate the good in public education
More details will be shared as the date approaches. We look forward to meeting with you! If you have any questions, please contact ESLTitleIII@dpi.nc.gov.
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Please Share With Data Stakeholders in your PSU!
Home Language Survey Professional Development
In an effort to introduce the standardized Home Language Survey to stakeholders, the ML/Title III Team is offering a professional development opportunity for all data management stakeholders (i.e., school data managers, Enrollment specialists, EL data managers, SIS Coordinators, ML coordinators, and administrators). This PD aims to provide participants with the necessary knowledge and resources to effectively administer the state's standardized Home Language Survey. By enhancing staff expertise, the program supports compliance with federal regulations and state board policies, ultimately improving educational practices.
Please share this flyer with any data managers in your PSU who may need to attend. Use this form to register for the session that best suits your needs. Space is limited! While we will try to honor all registrations, priority enrollment will be given to stakeholders from the state board region of the training. OCR/CRDC - SY2324 - Deadline Extension, System Latency Reminder, and Updated Status Report
Note: PSUs that were not open in the school year 2023-24 are not required to participate in this collection.
CRDC Deadline Extended to April 7, 2025
The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has sent a nationwide notification to superintendents announcing an extension of the CRDC submission deadline to April 7, 2025. PSUs now have additional time to review, update, and certify their data.
System Latency Reminder
The Federal Submission Tool remains accessible nationwide, with peak usage between 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM EST. Users may experience system latency during these hours, particularly as the new deadline approaches.
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Expect uploads to process overnight.
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If the Pre-Certification or Certification buttons appear unavailable when your PSU is ready to certify, please check the system again later.
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February 28, 2025 State Progress Report (Attached)
The latest state progress report includes:
- Percentage of completion for each PSU
- Certification status (certified or pending)
- Current contact information listed in the Federal Submission Tool
Thank you for your continued efforts throughout this process. If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out.
Charter schools now have a dedicated SIS professional contact!
We are pleased to introduce Jennifer Fogleman as your new dedicated NCSIS Professional Learning Consultant for Charter Schools, effective immediately.
Jennifer brings a wealth of experience in the Student Information System (SIS) and is committed to providing you with the same high level of service you've come to expect from our team.
The NCSIS Professional Learning Consultant team is here to support you, please don't hesitate to contact Jennifer if you have any questions or concerns.
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Charter School Feedback for the SIS Professional Learning Team
This is the link to the Charter School feedback survey we are conducting at the SIS Professional Learning Team. The feedback from charter schools is vital in helping us support you during the transition to the new NCSIS, Infinite Campus.
2024 Driver Education Certificates
Are you looking for the new 2024 Driver Education Certificates for your students to take to the DMV?
Look no Further! Email all requests directly to the Office of Charter Schools consultant at brandi.gill@dpi.nc.gov.
They will be processed within a week. Schools may continue to utilize the old forms until supplies are depleted.
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World Languages Standards Implementation PD Registration
World Languages and Healthful Living are currently in Standards Installation. As part of installation, both teams will be providing regional standards implementation PD in Spring 2025. Below are the current schedule and registrations for World Languages.
Other Resources from DPI and beyond
NCVPS Spring 2025 Registration is Still Open!
There’s still time to register for Spring 2025 courses with NCVPS! With over 130 options—including Advanced Placement, CTE, world languages, arts, health and physical education, middle school, OCS, core courses, and more—students can find the perfect courses to match their academic goals and needs. Our program also provides access to classes that may not be available locally, making it easier for every student to succeed.
After February 3: We’ve got you covered even after the open enrollment window closes!
After Open Enrollment Options:
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Transfers: Schools can transfer individual students or entire classes after open enrollment ends. To begin the transfer process, simply open a ticket with our Virtual Support Center.
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Emergency Requests: We know the recent hurricane disrupted operations for many schools. If your school has unique circumstances, contact our Virtual Support Center—we’re here to help.
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Co-Teaching: Schools can continue adding students to existing co-teaching OCS and intervention courses throughout the semester. However, please note that new sections cannot be opened at this time.
At NCVPS, we’re committed to breaking down barriers and offering flexible, high-quality learning opportunities to help students achieve their goals and prepare for the future.
Have questions? Reach out to us anytime for more information!
NCVPS 2025-2026 Enrollment Now Open!
NCVPS has opened registration early to support schools and districts as they prepare for the transition to the new statewide student information system. Schools and students can now explore our updated course catalog and plan for summer, fall, and spring enrollment. We recently added Honors 1 and 2 options for French, Latin, and Spanish, and we have a new filtering feature in our registration system to make finding courses easier. As you register, consider Early Start vs. Standard Start options to align with your school’s academic calendar. Don’t wait—secure your enrollments today! See all the details in our latest NCVPS E-lert.
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Early bird registration for the North Carolina Association for Public Charter Schools conference closes April 3rd
We hope you will join us at the 2025 NCAPCS Conference on July 16-18 in Wilmington, NC at the Wilmington Convention Center! This year's conference theme is Grow Connect Inspire and we are thrilled to share that our Keynote Speaker will be Ron Clark.
Ron Clark’s outstanding success with students from low-wealth areas of North Carolina and New York City led him to be named Disney’s American Teacher of the Year. He is a New York Times Best Selling author, and his classes have been honored at the White House on three separate occasions. Ron’s teaching experiences in New York City are the subject of the uplifting film, The Ron Clark Story, starring Matthew Perry. Currently, Mr. Clark serves as a teacher and administrator at the Ron Clark Academy, an award winning and internationally acclaimed middle school in Atlanta, GA. The school serves as a training site for educators, and each year thousands of teachers and administrators from around the world visit the school to be trained in their methods for helping all students achieve success.
Early Bird Registration will be open from March 3, 2025, to April 3, 2025. Don't delay, take advantage of our early bird pricing for special discounts! Regular rates will begin on April 4th and registration will remain open until July 7th. Register HERE.
Share excellence in education!
Post exceptional student work or exciting happenings at your NC Charter School. Then tag or mention OCS on Social Media for others to see!
Remember when you share on social media to use #WeAreNCCharters or @NCCharterOffice
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Telra Institute Hosting StepLab
Calling all Instructional Coaches, School Leaders, Department Heads, and Mentor Teachers. North Carolina is proud to host the wizards behind StepLab when they visit the U.S. this May. This is *the* event for anyone interested in supercharging teacher development. Let's work together to uplift teachers across the State!
Learn more and register for this full-day professional development event hosted by Telra Institute in Charlotte, NC on Saturday, May 3.
Fresh Take 2025
Join us for an inspiring day of learning at the 12th Annual Fresh Take Conference on Friday, March 7, 2025, hosted by Community School of Davidson! Designed BY teachers, FOR teachers, this dynamic conference brings together passionate educators to share fresh ideas and best practices.
We’re thrilled to welcome renowned researcher and educator John Almarode as this year’s keynote speaker!
Don’t miss out—register now and take advantage of a special group discount for teams of 5 or more!
✉️ Questions? Contact Leslie Bragg at lbragg@csdspartans.org.
Register for NC Center for the Advancement of Teaching (NCCAT) Summer Opportunities
Join the North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching (NCCAT) this summer for transformative professional development. These residential programs provide educators with the tools, strategies and support to elevate their teaching. Each week, teachers engage in content-rich instruction, explore proven methodologies and receive coaching to implement new insights effectively. The goal is to empower educators to create classrooms where students are more engaged, self-motivated and successful.
Learn more about the professional development opportunities available at NCCAT this summer and register here.
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2024 Standards of Professional Conduct
Please download and distribute this OCS guidance document.
School Attendance and Student Accounting (SASA) Manual
This is a MUST HAVE resource for all charter school administrators.
2024 Updated SASA-Manual
Charter School Job Postings
Job postings will include the posted date and will be deleted after two months. Schools may request early removal or extension. Contact Joseph.Letterio@dpi.nc.gov with a posting link.
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Ashley Baquero • Director, Office of Charter Schools
Please send general inquires to ocs@dpi.nc.gov
Contact information for area specialists can be found on the Office of Charter Schools Directory.
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