DC PCSB Announces New Timeline for the 2026 New School Charter Application Cycle - Shifting Cycle to the Fall While Lengthening the Planning Year

We believe the updated review process will increase the quality of applications, lead to stronger openings, and allow for thoughtful decision-making through capacity-driven calendar planning. We aligned the new timeline with the recent New School Application Guidance from the National Association of Charter School Authorizers (NACSA). First, we will host information sessions to make our process clear to potential applicants. After a founding team submits a letter of intent, DC PCSB will hold pitch meetings in which they present on their model’s development, and DC PCSB provides initial feedback. Additions like these create more opportunities to engage with our standards for a high-quality application.

The timeline below shows the key events for the 2026 Charter Application process. Please note that these dates may change depending on scheduling needs.  All times are for Eastern Time (ET). We will release the 2026 Charter Application Guidelines in February on our Start a Charter School website page. There, you can find this timeline, past resources, and our application archive. If you have questions, please contact [email protected].