In the past year, CharterFolk significantly expanded its presence in charter school advocacy, publishing 140 posts and increasing readership from 700 to 1300. Despite challenges from the pandemic and personal setbacks, the community contributed immensely. Key themes included addressing the Great Disconnect in public education and recognizing systemic inequities demanding reform.
In this post, the author discusses the varying levels of advocacy success among charter school associations in Pennsylvania and Rhode Island. While Pennsylvania struggles due to lack of unity and resources, Rhode Island’s cohesive approach has enabled it to better tackle advocacy challenges. Increased investments in advocacy reveal a growing trend towards collective self-care across multiple states, revealing potential for greater impact in the future.
The post reflects the writer’s struggle to find the right tone while providing progress on a goal for increasing membership dues in charter school advocacy. Although there has been encouraging growth in contributions, challenges remain, exacerbated by pandemic-related exhaustion and staffing issues. The emphasis is on balancing urgent advocacy needs with the current realities facing educators.
The response to the recent CharterFolk posts has been remarkable, especially regarding the Bloomberg announcement and Julio Vázquez’s heartfelt column. The importance of addressing the weakening charter school movement is emphasized, as unions have shifted focus to opposing charters while evading other reforms. Innovative policy proposals are urged to strengthen advocacy for charter schools moving forward.
Julio Vázquez Sr., co-founder of Eugenio María de Hostos Charter School, reflects on his journey advocating for bilingual education in Rochester, New York. After facing educational barriers, he established the school to offer an equitable, community-centered alternative. Celebrating over two decades of success, he emphasizes education’s transformative power for future generations.
The author reflects on the significance of Bloomberg’s recent announcement regarding charter schools, highlighting the critical state of public education and the dual nature of the charter movement’s strength and vulnerability. Advocacy is emphasized as essential for future success, while the need for collective intent and clarity in messaging about the movement’s value is underscored.
Jim Blew discusses the evolution and current fragility of the charter school movement, emphasizing the importance of maintaining quality and diversity of models in education. He highlights the challenges posed by labor unions and advocates for the need for innovative school models and stronger political engagement to ensure the movement’s survival and success.
Good afternoon, CharterFolk. Coming off the Thanksgiving week, I wanted to share a column that, by rights, I should have completed months ago. And it is one that I should be up front about my conflicts. The Fisher Family has been very supportive of organizations that I have worked for, and I personally start from
This week, CharterFolk honors Michael Chalupa, Executive Director of City Neighbors Foundation in Baltimore. Under his leadership, the foundation has transformed public education through design-focused initiatives, project-based learning, and strong advocacy. Over 16 years, Chalupa has helped establish City Neighbors as a model for innovative charter schools, serving diverse student populations.
The author reflects on their experience with CharterFolk, highlighting a meaningful reconnection with former student Yuridia Nava. This led to discussions about educational challenges and successes while emphasizing the importance of school choice. The narrative intertwines personal milestones, including a 60th wedding anniversary, affirming the ongoing journey of educational reform and community engagement.