Start a Charter School
The SCSC welcomes petitioners interested in opening innovative, high-quality state or locally-authorized charter schools.
What is a charter school?

Who authorizes charter schools in Georgia?
Who authorizes charter schools in Georgia?
State Charter Schools Commission
State Charter School
The State Charter Schools Commission (SCSC) is Georgia's state-level, independent charter school authorizer. SCSC-authorized or State Charter Schools serve as independent Local Education Agencies (LEAs). Visit the Start a New State Charter School page to learn more about the requirements for submitting a charter school petition to start a state charter school.
Local Boards of Education & State Board of Education
Locally-Approved Charter School
A Local Board of Education (LBOE), along with the State Board of Education (State Board), can authorize charter schools within the LBOE's district. The LBOE serves as the LEA for a locally-authorized or Locally-Approved Charter School. The Office of Charter School Compliance (OCSC) supports LBOEs and the State Board by providing guidance and recommendations during the local petition process.
Contact the LBOE where you intend to locate for details about its charter petition process, and visit the OCSC’s page for information about fulfilling local petition requirements.