Douglas County board to consider Renaissance PK–5 charter contract

The Douglas County School District Board of Education is scheduled to consider a proposed charter contract for Renaissance PK–5 on Oct. 27. The contract would allow the public school, serving preschool through fifth grade, to open in fall 2028 if it meets enrollment and other pre-opening requirements. The district agenda and proposed contract list the item on the consent agenda and recommend approval.

The draft sets enrollment checkpoints for the 2028–29 school year: at least 300 students by Dec. 1, 2027, and 372 by March 15, 2028. It identifies 372 students as necessary for financial solvency. By May 1, 2028, the school would need 400 students or a revised multiyear budget showing it could remain financially solvent at lower enrollment without harming students’ educational experience or safety.

The school would also need to hold at least three public town halls within five miles of its proposed site and collect verified letters of intent totaling at least 150% of projected enrollment at each grade level by Jan. 15, 2027. A facility lease or purchase agreement would be due Jan. 30, followed by a revised balanced five-year budget by Feb. 26 and required permits or zoning clearances by Sept. 15, 2027.

The draft calls for evidence of facility completion by April 30, 2028, and a certificate of occupancy by July 15. If the school misses the April deadline, it would need to provide an agreement for a compliant interim site by May 14. The district could treat failure to meet the conditions as a material breach and grounds for intervention or revocation, but the contract also allows it to waive or modify conditions for good cause.

The board has not yet taken action; its consideration is scheduled for Oct. 27.