Arizona’s Major Online Charter School Faces Extreme Penalty: Charter Revoked

By Staff Reporter |

The Arizona State Board for Charter Schools (ASBCS) has officially revoked the charter of Primavera Online School, a decision that could impact over 20,000 students currently enrolled. This unanimous decision, made during Tuesday’s meeting, was primarily based on the school’s poor academic performance over the last three years.

Damian Creamer, founder and CEO of Primavera, argues that ASBCS misclassified the school as a traditional institution instead of maintaining its historical status as an alternative school. This reclassification led to Primavera receiving failing grades, which would have been adjusted had it retained its alternative designation, aimed at at-risk students.

While ASBCS acknowledged that Primavera could still be considered an alternative school, they pointed out that the school’s management had not communicated with state officials regarding its redesignation or the resulting academic issues.

Creamer responded strongly, stating, “The Arizona State Charter School Board’s decision to revoke Primavera’s charter is a grave injustice to all of Arizona’s students, parents, and teachers. This reckless action threatens a vital educational institution that has served our community diligently.” He criticized the Board for denying legal counsel the chance to address allegations and for relying on what he termed factually incorrect narratives. Creamer vowed that Primavera would take all necessary steps to challenge the decision, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring access to quality education.

Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne stated that he had no authority to intervene in the revocation process. He noted that Primavera would need to appeal and present evidence during a hearing set for September. “The legislature chose to divide jurisdiction regarding charter schools between the Arizona Department of Education and the Charter Board,” Horne remarked, underscoring his lack of influence over the matter.

Despite the revocation, Primavera has received approval for alternative status for the upcoming 2025 fiscal year, and its application for the 2026 fiscal year is currently pending with the Arizona Department of Education.