FOCUS Charter School Design and Development Program
Beginning in 2004, FOCUS became a one-stop training and support center for individuals and organizations seeking to start new charter schools in the District of Columbia. The FOCUS School Design and Development (SD & D) program provides aspiring charter school leaders with the tools and guidance necessary for creating successful charter school applications and for opening outstanding schools.
FOCUS programs:
Every year, FOCUS offers a seminar on the basics of starting a charter school in Washington, D.C. open to all those interested in learning about charter schools and the application and start-up process. Contact FOCUS (rvsp@focusdc.org) if you are interested in this workshop.
Application Preparation Program
If you have questions email us at rsvp@focusdc.org
Founding groups selected to participate in the Startup Program are offered intensive, interactive workshops covering essentials aspects of school design:
| Standards, Curriculum, and Instruction | Literacy |
| Assessment and Accountability | Facilities |
| English Language Learners | Business Planning |
| Special Education | Data Management and Student Information Systems |
Application Consulting Program
FOCUS staff works with each school’s founding group to answer questions, address topics specific to the school, and refine the charter petition, and offers coaching during the planning year.
After receiving conditional approval from the Public Charter School Board, charter leaders attend monthly FOCUS workshops on the nuts and bolts of opening and operating a school. Topics include:
| School Governance | Recruiting Students |
| Employment and Labor Law | Health and Wellness |
| Facilities | Special Education |
| E-Rate & Technology Plan | English Language Learners |
| Marketing Your School | Fundraising |
Grants
FOCUS staff supports schools in procuring startup and operational funding from private foundations and federal programs. FOCUS is the local Walton Family Foundation grant partner.
