District Improvement Planning (DIP/LEA Plan) for Charter Districts 

Famous astronaut Buzz Aldrin once said, “Shoot for the moon; you might get there!” Space travel takes planning, and so does having really great schools! Having a well-designed DIP/LEA Plan (aka LEA Plan per TEA) can help your organization have focus and reach its goals, but in some cases, it is also required by law. … Read More

Beginning of Year Activities for Federal Programs

The 2024-25 school year is in sight, and it’s time to get organized to start the year off right! Planning and parental engagement are at the top of the list for the new year of federal programs, especially Title I. The CSS BOY Checklist will keep you in compliance with all the back-to-school federal requirements. … Read More

Special Education Consolidated (Federal) Grant Application 

Meeting the needs of special education students can be expensive for schools. Fortunately, the federal grant known as IDEA B is available to public schools to help meet those needs. The Special Education Consolidated (Federal) Grant application is available now in eGrants and is due no later than 5:00 p.m. September 3, 2024 (along with … Read More

Micro-Purchase Threshold Self-Certification for 2024-25 Due Oct. 1 (Optional)

When it comes to purchasing with grant funds, micro problems can become mega problems if you don’t follow proper procedures. You might have previously raised your micro-purchase threshold (EDGAR allowed starting 2021), but action is needed annually to maintain it. If you are new or want to make a change, you can consider this option … Read More

Applying for Sub System of Time & Effort

You know how sometimes you do something just in case you need it? Applying to use the substitute system of time and effort is a “just in case” situation; because if you don’t apply, you can’t use it. Why would I need it you ask? If you end up needing to split-fund an employee with … Read More

Title I Supplemental Methodology Requirement

Whether you are on a July 1 or Sept 1 budget start date, planning for Title I funds must be part of the process. When dealing with Title I, you will often hear the term SNS mentioned. SNS stands for “Supplement Not Supplant,” and prior to the adoption of the LEA budget, there is a … Read More

Basic Grants Management

Grants can be a great way to add funds to your school budget, but dealing with grants is not simple. The payoff of receiving grants can be worth it if you are cognizant of the regulations and rules of the grant. Before you venture too far into the grant waters, take the time to understand … Read More

ESSA Consolidated Grant Application

Summer is grant writing time in the federal world! This can often be our busiest time of year with closing out previous year grants, and planning and applying for the next round. One of the main ones is the ESSA Consolidated Grant Application that is the formula grant (non-competitive) for the major title funds (Title … Read More

What Does It Take to Be a Successful Charter HR Professional?

Today’s HR Tip is an interview with an HR Expert – Charter School Success’s very own Jordan Elliott. Read below for Jordan’s valuable insights from her career as an HR professional How did you get into the field of HR in education? My real love for HR evolved while I was serving as Superintendent of … Read More

High School Indicators – Summer PEIMS

Did you know that there are multiple accelerated programs that your district could be offering your High School students? These programs are a great opportunity for your students and can potentially boost your districts’ College, Career and Military Readiness calculations! If your district offers one of these programs, you will need to code the students … Read More