Established by Central Michigan University

In 1994, Central Michigan University became the first Michigan University to authorize a charter school, and it remains the largest authorizer of charter schools in Michigan and in the nation. Nearly 60 of Michigan’s 199 charter schools in operation are authorized by Central Michigan University. These nearly 60 schools serve a student population of over 26,000 children.

Central Michigan University’s involvement with charter schools expands a tradition of educational leadership that began in the late 1800s, when it trained its first public school teachers. The University’s vision is that charter schools:

• Will make a difference in the lives of students, families and teachers while also having a positive impact on local communities;
• Provide top-quality programs that help students grow academically and personally and receive consistently high marks from parents;
• Meet and exceed state rules and regulations; when possible, they will contribute to the revitalization of their communities, particularly in the state’s urban areas; and
• Strive to be pillars of innovation in instruction, effectiveness of their governance structure and in forging mutually beneficial relationships with their communities.
• For more information on Central Michigan University and the charter school office, visit  www.cmucso.org.