Charter schools operate as independent Local Educational Agencies (LEAs). As such, authorizers (such as the CCCOE) do not manage the day-to-day operations of the charter program including curriculum and instruction, student grades, discipline, enrollment/admissions, or human resources. Authorizers do provide oversight to ensure that charter schools operate according to the requirements of the law and the policies established in the school’s charter petition.
As a general rule, it is advisable to first direct complaints through the charter school leadership and/or the complaint procedures established for that organization. However, if the complaint is about a dangerous situation for students, discrimination, failure to provide services or assessment for special education, or if the charter has not responded to your complaint, it may be appropriate for the authorizer to get involved.
You can submit a formal complaint via the form below and someone from the Contra Costa County Office of Education, Department of Charter School Oversight will follow up with you accordingly. Please note that the CCCOE only oversees the charters that are specifically authorized by the Contra Costa County Board of Education. If your charter has a different authorizer (either a local school district or the State Board of Education) you should redirect your complaint to that entity.