Speakers
Dustin Sparks
Board & Governance
Every contract your charter school enters is more than a set of legal obligations; it’s a story that shapes your school’s future. This session guides school leaders and board members in interpreting the narrative within each contract clause, revealing how clarity in agreements supports accountability, minimizes future conflict and legal risks, and builds trust with external partners.
Whether negotiating terms for special education services, safeguarding student and employee data, or clarifying jurisdiction and venue, understanding the story behind each provision empowers leaders to make decisions that advance their school’s mission. By viewing contracts as living documents that reflect your school’s priorities and relationships, you’ll be better equipped to anticipate challenges, avoid disputes, and create long-term collaborative partnerships.
Participants will leave with practical insights for interpreting contract language, recognizing opportunities, and ensuring every agreement supports the long-term success and impact of their school.
Dustin Sparks Bio
Dustin Sparks is the founder and managing member of the Charter School Law Group, a firm committed to guiding charter schools through the intricate legal framework they navigate. With a keen focus on employment law, Dustin has carved out a niche in advising charter schools on the development of robust employment policies, conducting thorough investigations into employment-related issues, and crafting strategies for the prevention of claims. His expertise extends to all facets of employment litigation, where he has a proven track record of defending schools in disputes with employees, thus safeguarding the interests of educational institutions.
In addition to his expertise in employment law, Dustin possesses a broad legal skill set that encompasses various aspects crucial to charter schools. He plays a pivotal role in securing new charter contracts, facilitating financing for school facilities, managing property acquisitions, and negotiating construction agreements. He has been instrumental in drafting and revising policies that guide schools in their day-to-day operations, advising boards and administrators, and addressing challenges involving both employees and students. His advisory role further includes special education matters, tax issues, and the myriad of unique challenges that come with the charter school territory.
Throughout his career, Dustin has successfully secured over $500 million in financing for charter schools, represented these institutions in land and facilities acquisitions, and defended them against claims from diverse stakeholders. His work is driven by an intellectual curiosity about the evolving landscape of charter school law and a deep-seated belief in the importance of educational choice. Dustin finds immense satisfaction in knowing his efforts contribute to enabling students to attend the schools they choose, reinforcing his commitment to the educational sector.
