The Orange County Board of Education authorizes charter schools with the expectation that they provide high-quality educational opportunities while operating in accordance with their approved charter, applicable law, and Board policy.
The Charter Schools Unit partners with each OCBE-authorized charter school to support continuous improvement through ongoing oversight, monitoring, and technical assistance. Our oversight process promotes transparency, accountability, and student success while helping schools understand and meet authorizer expectations.
Areas of Oversight
Oversight focuses on four key areas:
- Educational Program & Student Achievement
- Governance & Operations
- Fiscal Health & Financial Accountability
- Fidelity to the Approved Charter
What to Expect
Throughout the charter term, your assigned Charter Schools Unit staff member serves as your primary point of contact and is available to answer questions, provide guidance, and discuss compliance requirements. We encourage charter schools to communicate with staff throughout the year—not just during annual oversight visits.
Annual Oversight Visits
The Charter Schools Unit conducts at least one scheduled oversight visit each year for every OCBE-authorized charter school, consistent with California law and Orange County Board of Education policy.
An annual oversight visit may include:
- Classroom observations
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Meetings with school leadership, teachers, and staff
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Review of educational programs and student services
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Facilities inspection
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Review of governance, operational, fiscal, and compliance records
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Review of Local Control and Accountability Plans (LCAPs), credentialing, and other required documentation
Oversight activities occur throughout the year and are intended to support continuous improvement while ensuring compliance with applicable legal and charter requirements.
Oversight Resources
Use the resources below to prepare for your annual oversight visit and understand the review process.
Last reviewed August 2026
