Washington Administrative Code Title 108 - Charter School Commission
Overview
Title 108 is the section of the Washington Administrative Code that lays out the rules for the Washington State Charter School Commission. This Commission is the state-level authorizer and overseer of charter schools in Washington. Title 108 provides the legal framework for how new charter schools can apply, how they are monitored, how performance is measured, and what happens if schools fail to meet standards.
Chapters of Title 108
1. Chapter 108-10 – Introduction
Defines the authority of the Commission.
Explains the scope of these rules.
Provides important definitions used throughout the Title, like “charter contract,” “performance framework,” and “complaint.”
Clarifies that the Commission is responsible for ensuring charter schools operate in line with Washington law.
2. Chapter 108-20 – Application Process
Outlines how a group or organization can apply to open a charter school.
Requires applicants to file a Notice of Intent before submitting a full application.
The application must include:
Educational program design.
Governance structure and leadership.
Budget and financial plan.
Plans for serving students with disabilities and English learners.
Staffing and teacher qualifications.
Enrollment and lottery procedures.
Sets strict deadlines and review procedures.
Applications are reviewed by Commission staff, often with interviews, site visits, and a final vote by the Commission.
3. Chapter 108-30 – Performance Framework
Establishes the accountability system for all charter schools.
Schools are evaluated in three key areas:
Academic performance – student achievement, growth, graduation rates, college readiness, etc.
Financial performance – fiscal health, clean audits, sustainability of budget.
Organizational performance – governance, compliance with laws, meeting obligations to special education and other student services.
Schools may also include mission-specific goals unique to their design.
Ratings are given on scales such as “Exceeds Standard,” “Meets Standard,” “Approaches Standard,” or “Does Not Meet Standard.”
These ratings are used to decide if a charter contract should be renewed or revoked.
4. Chapter 108-40 – Oversight, Renewal, and Termination
Gives the Commission authority to monitor schools through reports, site visits, audits, and required data submissions.
If a school is failing, the Commission may:
Require a corrective action plan.
Increase oversight.
Modify parts of the contract.
Decide not to renew the charter.
Revoke or terminate the charter contract.
If a school is terminated, a transition team must be formed quickly (within about 48 hours) to manage student transfers, secure records, and handle school closure responsibly.
5. Chapter 108-50 – Public Records
Explains how the Commission must comply with Washington’s Public Records Act.
Any records held by the Commission are public unless exempt (such as private student information or attorney-client communications).
Establishes rules for handling public records requests, including timelines and allowable fees.
6. Chapter 108-60 – Complaints
Provides a formal process for filing complaints against charter schools.
Complaints can usually be filed by students, parents, or guardians.
A valid complaint must include specific information about the issue.
The Commission reviews complaints and decides whether further investigation or corrective action is required.
Complaints may also be referred to other agencies if necessary (for example, special education issues may be referred to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction).
Practical Impacts of Title 108
For applicants: Sets the standards and requirements for opening a charter school.
For schools: Creates clear accountability rules they must follow each year.
For families: Provides transparency and a way to raise concerns.
For the Commission: Ensures consistency in oversight and fairness in decision-making.
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