MO HB550

Charter schools may operate in metropolitan districts, urban districts with cities over 350,000 population, unaccredited districts, provisionally accredited districts meeting certain criteria, and fully accredited districts (with sponsor limited to local school board and enrollment capped at 35% for districts with 1,550+ students)

Creates a "high-quality charter school" designation for schools achieving 85%+ on annual performance reports for 3 of 4 years, maintaining 80%+ graduation rates, and meeting fiscal viability standards; these schools receive expedited opportunities to replicate and expand into unaccredited or large urban districts

Charter school sponsors may place schools on probationary status for up to 24 months (increased from 12 months) and must revoke charters for underperformance in 3 of 4 years or violations imperiling students or public funds

Nonresident students from unaccredited districts who cannot transfer to an accredited school within their district of residence may enroll in charter schools in the same or adjoining county; charter schools may receive tuition payments from districts for these nonresident transfers

Charter applications must be submitted by January 31 (changed from December 1) prior to proposed opening; the state board has 60 days to approve or deny and must provide written reasons for any disapproval within 10 business days