Delaware Charter Schools Network

Established in 2001, The Delaware Charter Schools Network is a non-profit organization created to support the charter school movement and charter schools in Delaware. Through donations from foundations and members across the state, the Network provides advocacy and essential services to public charter schools, their boards, leaders, staff, and parents. The Network educates the public about charter schools, provides assistance to existing Delaware charter schools and those yet to open, and serves as a unified voice for the state's charter schools at the state and national level.

Charter schools play a critical role in Delaware's public education landscape. In 1995, the charter school law was passed with the goal of increasing choices for families and raising the academic performance of all Delaware schools. Today, 18 charter schools offer an abundance of options for families of the First State, and three new schools have been approved for opening in 2010. The vision for the Delaware Charter Schools Network is to serve as a catalyst for systemic change resulting in excellence in public education throughout Delaware. As a small state, Delaware can serve as the model for excellence in education and choice, and the Network is committed to this model working with organizations like Vision 2015 to enhance quality and opportunities in education.

Since 1996 when Delaware's first charter schools opened their doors, a growing number of families have made the charter school choice, and most Delaware charter schools have waiting lists. The Network's challenge is to improve and expand existing schools, encourage the creation of new charters, and ensure that all of Delaware's charter schools remain accountable and high performing.

The Delaware Charter Schools Network is governed by two unique boards. The Advisory Board of the Network is comprised of the charter school leaders throughout the state. The Governing Board of the Network is comprised of a combination of charter school leaders and community leaders. The two boards work closely to ensure that all activities of the Network reflect the organization commitment to supporting high quality charter schools.