Central Michigan University was the first authorizer in the state and the first university authorizer in the nation. The CMU Board of Trustees voluntarily issues charter contracts to establish charter public schools. The Governor John Engler Center for Charter Schools works closely with CMU partner schools across the state to fulfill the ambitious goal of preparing students academically for success in college, work and life.

The innovative public schools that we partner with are empowered to put the needs of students first. Each of these charter public schools is 100 percent tuition free and open to every student.

These questions are the foundation for CMU’s authorizing model. The Center takes pride in building partnerships with public schools that drive innovative educational programs, while connecting schools to leading-edge resources such as computer adaptive testing, performance reports and automated compliance and accountability systems. Coupled together, these tools help target student needs, reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and influence future decisions. The Center works to ensure that partner schools are serving the best interests of students and providing access to the quality education they deserve.

CMU has dedicated its resources to providing expertise in all essential areas, including academic, finance, state and federal accountability, facility regulations and requirements, staff certification, special education, board governance, educational program and curriculum development, public policy, data analysis, compliance requirements and state regulations.

The Center understands that schools are successful when they can focus on what is most important, the education of students. The Center has the experience, knowledge and expertise to assist schools from day one. Beyond the application process, content area experts provide assistance in navigating through the Michigan school landscape. The Center’s content area experts are respected and called upon throughout the state by departments, agencies and other authorizers.

In addition to content area experts, the Center has built relationships with the Michigan Department of Education, various state agencies, state and national charter school advocacy organizations, and community and philanthropic organizations. These relationships and partnerships provide additional resources, assist schools to resolve issues and open the doors to opportunities.

With a commitment to impacting all education, the Center works to help inform legislators, the Governor’s office, community organizations and stakeholders to ensure that the educational landscape in Michigan continues to develop and support school choice and charter public school success.

The Center has the experience, knowledge
and expertise to assist schools from day one.

CMU’s commitment to the charter public school movement and CMU partner schools is also demonstrated through initiatives and programs developed to increase access to opportunities and continued learning experiences for both students and educators. The Center has worked with CMU to create opportunities for students, teachers and school leaders.

The Center continues to share best practices and has been relied upon by organizations and authorizers across the nation. With a focus on driving innovation, supporting choice and demonstrating excellence, the Center lives its mission of transforming public education.