ND HB1358

Creates a new chapter in North Dakota law authorizing public charter schools, with the superintendent of public instruction responsible for developing application and renewal processes, granting approvals, and adopting implementing rules

Limits charter schools to 12 during the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years, increasing to 15 for the 2027-28 and 2028-29 school years

Applicants must demonstrate successful experience operating charter schools in other states, success educating at-risk students, ability to provide innovative programs, or good standing with North Dakota's superintendent

Charter schools receive state aid based on per-student payments but cannot receive local tax funds or charge tuition; the state covers excess costs for high-cost special education students but is not required to provide transportation

Charter school boards must have 5, 7, or 9 members including community residents, operate as public entities subject to open meetings laws, and may join the North Dakota high school activities association for athletics