Understanding Charter Schools: Montrose, Management Orgs, & Minga Education Group (full series)
Montrose Classical Academy’s Application to the Montrose County School District Prompts Questions about Management Organizations and Service Providers
As charter schools expand across the country, so does confusion about who is running them. Terms like “Education Management Organization” (EMO) and “Education Service Provider” (ESP) are often used interchangeably, but they describe very different relationships between charter schools and private companies. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for parents, educators, taxpayers, and policymakers who value transparency, accountability, and the effective use of public education funds. This paper breaks down the key differences between EMOs and ESPs, provides real-world examples, and offers some graphics to help clarify how each operates.
Keep in mind that many charter schools do not use management organizations, and management organizations aren’t “new” in the public education world. The catalyst for writing this was questions that are coming up frequently around the state as various new and existing charter schools use education management organizations and education service providers. It can be confusing, especially to people who aren’t familiar with outsourcing, third-party operations, etc. In some states, like Florida, it’s quite common.
Sections include:
Background on Charter Schools in Colorado
Unpacking the Current Charter Situation in Montrose County
Why We Care about Education Management Organizations and Service Providers
Facts & Considerations Related to the Third-Party Aspects of the MCA Application
Conclusion. Spoiler Alert: It’s a big decision and not as clean-cut as some folks would like it to be.
