Application Process
Under Indiana Code 搂 20-24-3-4, Education One administers a rigorous, multi-phase, invitation-only application process designed to identify and support charter school operators with the capacity to launch and sustain high-quality public charter schools that improve educational opportunities for students and families.
Education One is particularly interested in proposals that respond to demonstrated community needs and expand access to educational options that do not currently exist within a community. We welcome innovative school models, educational approaches and operator-led solutions that offer students and families meaningful choices. Innovation does not require creating something entirely new; rather, it means providing a distinctive educational experience, instructional approach, mission or student support model that fills a gap in the local educational landscape.
Successful applicants will demonstrate a deep understanding of the communities they seek to serve and meaningful engagement with local stakeholders. Education One values proposals that are informed by community voice, reflect local priorities and establish authentic partnerships that contribute to long-term sustainability and student success.
Full applications are accepted by invitation only following an initial review process. Advancement through each phase is not guaranteed. Applicants must meet clearly defined criteria at every stage to demonstrate academic quality, organizational readiness, financial viability, governance capacity and alignment with Education One's mission and quality standards.
This phased approach allows Education One to focus its resources on proposals with the greatest potential to deliver strong student outcomes, fulfill community needs and sustain long-term success.
Letter of Intent: Interested applicants must submit a Letter of Intent to the Executive Director, outlining the proposed school鈥檚 vision, location, target student population, grade levels, anticipated opening date and planned curriculum and operational structure.
Initial Proposal + Pitch Meeting: Applicants submit a written Initial Proposal Narrative that communicates the foundational components of the school model鈥攙ision, team capacity, community alignment and operational readiness. This narrative serves as the basis for the Pitch Meeting, where founding teams present their plan to Education One staff. The pitch offers an opportunity to articulate a compelling, coherent and credible school vision. Only applicants who meet the required criteria may advance to Phase I.
Following the invitation, applicants submit a full application, which is reviewed by the Application Review Team that includes Education One staff, consultants (e.g., finance/facilities, academic) and legal counsel as needed. After an initial review, applicants receive written feedback and may submit a revised application for re-evaluation. Only applicants who meet the required criteria may advance to Phase II.
Qualified applicants participate in a Capacity Interview with Education One鈥檚 team. Participants may include members of the proposed Governing Board, school leadership and founding staff. The interview assesses readiness to implement the proposed school model and operational plan. Only applicants who meet the required criteria may advance to Phase III.
School Board Meeting: Education One staff will attend a meeting of the applicant鈥檚 proposed school board to assess governance structure, board capacity and meeting norms.
Public Hearing: Applicants present their proposal in a public forum, with community members invited to provide comments in person or via an online form.
The Executive Director submits a formal recommendation to the Education One Board of Directors. The Board votes to approve or deny the application. Applicants are notified of the decision within 24 hours of the vote.