Charter School Board Governance Playbook

A Practical Guide for Strong, Effective Charter School Leadership

Developed by the Colorado League of Charter Schools, the Charter School Board Governance Playbook is your go-to resource for strengthening board leadership, improving oversight, and navigating the unique challenges of charter governance.

Designed for current and aspiring board members, this comprehensive guide covers essential topics—from legal responsibilities and financial oversight to academic performance and effective meetings.

What’s Inside:
Each chapter includes:

  • Clear objectives to guide your learning
  • Board discussion and action prompts for hands-on application
  • Case studies to spark meaningful conversation
  • Tools and templates for immediate use
  • Appendices with worksheets, policies, and real-world examples

Whether onboarding new members or planning a retreat, the playbook offers flexible formats that fit your board’s needs.

Chapters At-A-Glance

  • Board Fundamentals
  • Legal Responsibilities
  • Financial Oversight
  • School Leader Hiring, Oversight & Evaluation
  • Navigating Risk
  • Academic Performance
  • Meetings & Board Member Development
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Charter School Board Governance Playbook


Charter Board Training Course (Coming Soon...)

Strengthen your board. Strengthen your school.

Complement the playbook with the Charter Board Training Course—a guided, self-paced experience that brings key topics to life.

Six Practical Modules:

  1. Foundations of Charter Governance
  2. Board Responsibilities & Legal Compliance
  3. Financial Oversight & Budgeting
  4. Evaluating & Supporting School Leadership
  5. Academic Accountability & Performance
  6. Strategic Meetings & Board Development

Ideal for board members, school leaders, committee members, and authorizer liaisons. Learn anytime, anywhere. Certificates available upon completion.