Charter Schools Development Center

The Charter Schools Development Center (CSDC) is a leading U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for charter schools. Established shortly after the passage of the Charter Schools Act of 1992, CSDC plays a pivotal role in the national charter school movement, particularly in California.

Mission and Objectives

CSDC's mission is to transform public education from a highly regulated system to one that fosters creativity and performance-based learning. The organization aims to achieve this by providing technical assistance, leadership training, and advocacy support to charter schools. CSDC emphasizes the importance of high-quality education that cannot be solely measured by standardized test scores. It actively works against funding disparities and regulatory challenges that hinder charter school performance.

Activities and Services

• Leadership Training: Provides renowned leadership development programs for charter school leaders.
• Consulting Services: Offers comprehensive consulting for new and existing charter schools, focusing on operational support, governance, finance, and policy compliance.
• Advocacy: Acts as a consistent voice in advocating for charter school interests at the state and national levels.
• Resources and Publications: Delivers critical news updates and informative resources available to its members, facilitating access to current information relevant to charter schools.

International and National Impact

While initially focused on California, CSDC's influence extends nationally and internationally. Its staff has contributed to the development of charter laws in numerous states and plays a significant role in shaping school reform policies.

Financial Overview

As a nonprofit organization, CSDC is primarily funded through membership and program services. It maintains a strong financial foundation, with total assets exceeding several million dollars. The organization is not reliant on grants or individual donations, allowing it to operate independently.

Governance and Leadership

Eric Premack, the founder and executive director, has been instrumental in drafting California's charter school law and policies. CSDC's leadership team includes experts in various areas of charter school operations, ensuring that the organization remains a leading authority on charter school law, finance, and governance.

Technological Development

CSDC has invested in developing a robust online platform, enhancing its ability to provide accessible resources and support to the charter school community. This includes integrating Salesforce for member management and creating user-friendly content platforms.