AZ SB1494

Requires school district governing boards to select an independent entity as the sponsor for any charter school operated by the school district, with the independent entity exercising general oversight rather than the governing board itself.

Prohibits school districts operating charter schools from using monies from overrides, bond issues, or school facilities board funds for charter school operations.

Clarifies that charter schools sponsored by an independent entity selected by a school district are included in district budget calculations and the district must provide full charter additional assistance funding without using it for other purposes.

Establishes that the independent entity sponsor (not the school district governing board) shall adopt and enforce policies and procedures for governance, accounting, operations, and management of district-operated charter schools, including improvement plans.

Revises financial provisions to distinguish between charter schools operated by school districts versus those sponsored by the state board of education, state board for charter schools, universities, or community college districts.