How to Apply for a New School

Applying for a new school
Learning Program Requirements, Application, & Interview

Learning Program Requirements

Friends of Education has learning program requirements. Elementary schools must implement a classical content-rich curriculum, such as that typified by the core-knowledge sequence developed by E.D. Hirsch, Jr. and the Core Knowledge Foundation or the Classical Trivium (these are examples). Elementary schools must also implement a phonics-based reading program and the Saxon or Singapore math program unless a different math program is specifically approved by Friends of Education on a case-by-case basis.  Middle schools must implement curriculum which prepares students for high-school success, and high schools must implement a college-preparatory curriculum which prepares students for post-secondary success.

Application

Applicants are expected to respond to each application item in a comprehensive manner and follow the application and format requirements.  Applications which do not meet the learning program requirements, do not comply with the application and format requirements, or demonstrate significant fiscal deficiencies do not merit additional consideration.  Applications meriting additional consideration are further evaluated by Friends of Education and its review team. 

Applications which demonstrate a thorough understanding of key issues and the capacity to successfully open a quality charter school are scheduled for an interview.

Interview

The applicant's founders participate in an interview with Friends of Education's evaluation team. There are not pre-determined questions for the interview. The applicants should be prepared for specific questions regarding any aspect of their application. The purpose of the interview is to respond to questions or concerns that the review team had in evaluating the application and to determine whether the developing group has the capacity to implement the proposal.