Charter Schools Deserve a Risk Partner That Won't Walk Away
Published on November 2025
The traditional insurance market has become increasingly volatile. Charter schools across California are caught off guard by sudden premium spikes and how quickly the traditional insurance market leaves California. Even worse, insurance providers often pull out entirely after major disasters or tough claims years. Understandably, more charter leaders are asking: Is there a better way to protect our schools?
There is.
Joint Powers Authorities (JPAs) offer a proven alternative to commercial insurance. It's one that aligns more closely with the values and needs of California’s charter school community. They are member-governed risk pools, created by and for public education agencies. They offer stable, long-term coverage and, importantly, a voice in the decisions that affect your protection
JPAs, like CharterSAFE, stand with their members, even in challenging circumstances.
Unlike commercial insurers, who are beholden by profit margins and shareholders, JPAs are mission-driven and member-owned. They are here to serve schools, not to abandon them. Whether it’s wildfires, earthquakes, or costly liability claims, JPAs stay. They adapt, they support, and they plan for the future with you.
In the last 40 years, over 760 insurance companies have become financially impaired, compared to only one JPA. A JPA is a contract between two or more similar public agencies for the purpose of economies of scale in achieving common goals. JPA members are its owners-which means decisions are made in the best interest of those served. CharterSAFE’s goal is to provide stable and comprehensive coverage and share risk management and school safety resources for all California charter school members through group purchasing, self-insurance and a team of risk management and HR experts. We do it governed by a Board of Directors comprised of California charter school leaders and industry experts with a vested interest in smart operational management and fiscal integrity.
This kind of consistency is critical for charter schools, especially those operating with lean budgets and limited administrative bandwidth. The last thing you need is to scramble for new coverage mid-year or absorb a massive rate hike with no warning.
With a JPA, you gain multi-year rate strategies, transparent budgeting, and a governance model that includes charter leaders at the decision-making table. And because you’re pooling risk only with other educational institutions, you’re more likely to experience predictable and sustainable costs over time. That means more financial stability for your school, and more dollars staying where they belong: in classrooms, teacher salaries, and student services.
JPAs also go beyond insurance coverage. They offer essential supports like employee safety training, crisis response planning, and claims advocacy. These aren’t just “extras.” They are vital tools for proactively managing risk in today’s increasingly complex and litigious environment.
Charter schools were founded on innovation and doing things differently to better serve students and communities. That same spirit should guide how we protect our schools, our staff, and our students.
For California’s charter schools, the choice isn’t just about finding insurance. It’s about choosing a long-term partner who understands your mission, shares your values, and shows up year after year, no matter what comes.