orth Dakota Department of Public Instruction has begun work to implement Senate Bill 2241, the state’s new charter school law that officially took effect Aug 1.

State School Superintendent Kirsten Baesler announced the department is moving forward with developing the necessary administrative rules to support the law’s rollout. This process includes public meetings, opportunities for public comment, and final approval from both the North Dakota Attorney General and the Legislature’s Administrative Rules Committee..

Although charter school applications are not yet being accepted, Baesler noted that the department has already received several informal inquiries from teachers and educators. Many of these individuals are in discussions with potential local sponsors in small to mid-sized communities across the state.

SB2241 outlines several key responsibilities for the state superintendent, including

designing the charter school application and evaluation process, hosting public interviews with applicants, drafting and overseeing performance agreements, offering clear guidance on enrollment procedures and school formation, and ensuring compliance and reporting on student performance

The legislation also establishes that all charter school teachers must be licensed, in accordance with standards set by the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board.

Baesler said the process of rulemaking and implementation will require deliberate planning and public input. As a result, she said it is unlikely that any charter schools will be operational during the 2025-2026 academic year.