Charter School Board Governance Playbook
A Practical Guide for Strong, Effective Charter School Leadership
The Charter School Board Governance Playbook, developed by the Colorado League of Charter Schools, is your go-to resource for strengthening board leadership, improving school 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 to financial oversight, academic performance, and beyond.
What’s Inside the Playbook?
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 you can use immediately
- Appendices with worksheets, policies, and real-world examples
Whether you're onboarding new members or leading a full retreat, this playbook offers flexible formats that meet 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
Explore the full table of contents and dive into the topics most relevant to your board today.
Board Training Course
Strengthen your board. Strengthen your school.
Complement the playbook with our Charter Board Training Course — a guided, self-paced learning experience that brings key topics to life.
Six Practical Modules:
- Foundations of Charter Governance
- Board Responsibilities & Legal Compliance
- Financial Oversight & Budgeting
- Evaluating & Supporting School Leadership
- Academic Accountability & Performance
- Strategic Meetings & Board Development
- Ideal for: Board Members, School Leaders, Committee Members, and Authorizer Liaisons
Learn anytime, anywhere. Certificates available upon completion.