2026-27 Public Charter Schools Program: Planning and Implementation Discretionary Subgrant
Forecasted
2026-27 Public Charter Schools Program: Planning and Implementation Discretionary Subgrant supports new South Carolina charter schools with planning and startup work to expand quality school options.
Funder: South Carolina Department of Education
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Approximately $3 million total; maximum $850,000 for typical applicants or $1,000,000 for targeted applicants over 36 months
Summary: Supports planning, program design, and initial implementation of new public charter schools in South Carolina.
Key Information: Sponsor approval and an executed charter school contract are required before an award can be made.
Description
The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE), through its Office of Education Choice and Family Engagement, administers this competitive subgrant with funding from the U.S. Department of Education. It supports prospective and new charter schools, including those in rural communities, through initial planning, educational program design, and startup implementation. The program seeks to increase high-quality public school options, improve student learning, encourage innovative teaching, and close achievement gaps.
Broader goals include expanding access for children with disabilities, English learners, and traditionally underserved students; evaluating charter schools’ effects on students, families, and communities; and sharing effective practices with other public schools. The Charter Schools Program also promotes equitable facilities financing, stronger authorizing practices, and transparent academic, operational, and financial accountability.
