At the Colorado Charter School Institute (CSI), our annual School Leaders Meeting reflects our commitment to partnership, transparency, and continuous improvement. This February, school leaders from across the state gathered for a full day of updates and collaboration.
Staying Grounded in Our Mission
The day opened with an overview of who CSI schools serve and how they are performing. CSI schools exceed state averages in serving students of color, multilingual learners, and students eligible for free- and reduced-price lunch, and we continue to increase service to students with IEPs. Nine schools earned a “Performance with Distinction” rating in 2024-25, and CSI’s best-of graduation rate reached 91%, which was higher than the statewide average of 88%. For students with IEPs, that rate has climbed to 84%, compared to 74% statewide.
At the same time, we value continuous improvement and shared how the CSI team has been digging into portfolio-wide performance outcomes, identifying areas for growth. CSI is responding by developing focused cohorts and learning labs and improving data tools to help schools analyze and implement high-leverage practices.
A National Conversation on Authorizing
A highlight of the morning was a featured address by Karega Rausch, President and CEO of the National Association of Charter School Authorizers (NACSA). Drawing on a national vantage point, Rausch spoke to the qualities that define strong authorizer-school relationships where autonomy and accountability work together. His remarks reinforced what we believe at CSI: that oversight and partnership are not opposites. They are the foundation of charter public schools that succeed.
Navigating the Legislative Landscape
Prateek Dutta from the Colorado League of Charter Schools provided a candid look at the 2026 legislative session. This year, Colorado is facing an $850 million budget shortfall, significant leadership transitions at the state level, and a crowded election year. Advocacy for equitable access remains a priority for the League and for CSI.
CSI and our school leaders are committed to staying engaged in these conversations. Informed leaders are effective advocates, and effective advocacy shapes the conditions in which our schools can thrive.
The Power of Community Partnerships
The afternoon focused on partnership, from lunch conversations about how to facilitate shared staffing in areas of need to how CSI schools are building partnerships with Boys & Girls Clubs across Colorado. Leaders from University Prep, Steamboat Montessori, and High Rockies Community School shared models ranging from full co-location to transportation partnerships to shared facilities during a school’s pilot phase.
Looking Ahead
The meeting closed with celebration and forward momentum. CSI recognized several Colorado League of Charter Schools Hall of Fame finalists from our portfolio, including school leaders, educators, and advocates whose work exemplifies what makes charter schools succeed.
Whether navigating a shifting legislative landscape, serving a growing population of multilingual learners, or forging a new community partnership, CSI schools continue to demonstrate what is possible when autonomy, accountability, and a solid commitment to students come together.