H.R. 7082: Fostering Learning and Excellence in Charter Schools Act

This bill, known as the Fostering Learning and Excellence in Charter Schools Act (FLEX Act), proposes amendments to the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to provide more support and flexibility for charter schools. Here are the main components of the bill:

Funding Allowances

The bill modifies how funds are allotted to charter schools. Key changes include:

• Allowing federal funds to be used not just for starting new charter schools but also for adding or expanding programs at existing high-quality charter schools.
• Increasing the minimum percentages of funds allocated for various programs that support charter schools, such as expanding access to educational facilities.
• Requiring that a significant portion of any remaining funds after initial allocations be directed towards supporting charter school facilities and related national activities.

Grants for High-Quality Charter Schools

The bill aims to enhance the effectiveness and reach of grants provided under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. Key changes include:

• Expanding eligible activities for grants to include the addition or expansion of curricular programs designed to enroll more students.
• Allowing the federal Secretary to provide clearer guidelines on technical assistance and to help cover costs related to providing that assistance.
• Clarifying that charter schools can operate single-sex educational programs if they choose.

Support for Charter Management Organizations

The legislation allows grant funds to be used to support charter management organizations that seek to open or manage high-quality charter schools, particularly in states with limited charter educational options.

Consultation Requirements

The Secretary of Education is required to consult with charter school operators before proposing regulations related to charter schools, ensuring that the operators' perspectives are considered in the regulatory process.

Paperwork and Regulation Management

The bill introduces measures intended to reduce paperwork and streamline regulations concerning charter schools, directing the Secretary to only impose necessary regulations for administration.

Additional Definitions and Applicability

The bill clarifies existing definitions within the legislation, particularly concerning what constitutes education programs eligible for support. It also states that the amendments will apply to any new grants awarded after the bill is enacted, but previous grantees have the option to follow the amended guidelines.

Relevant Companies

• EDU (EDUCATION): Educational services companies operating charter schools might see changes in funding and regulatory environment, affecting their operational strategy.
• NEWT (Newtek Business Services): Companies providing financial services for charter school facilities could encounter increased demand for services related to school expansions.