2021 - CharterFolk

CharterFolk Contributors Arthur Samuels and Pagee Cheung – Creating 13th Grade Because Our Students Deserve Even Better

November 11, 2021

MESA Charter High School founders, Arthur Samuels and Pagee Cheung, emphasize the need for a “13th grade” to better transition students into post-secondary pathways. Recognizing challenges faced by first-generation graduates, they aim to enhance workforce readiness and offer extensive support, breaking the cycle of economic precarity faced by students like Pascal and Steven.

The 1000-Cut Pain We Feel from Our Current Lack of Vision and the Huge Opportunity We Have to Set Things Straight

November 10, 2021

The article discusses the implications of the growth of Gabriella Charter School and the challenges faced by the charter movement, particularly the narrative that charter schools worsen traditional public schools. It emphasizes the need for a clear vision and a three-pronged strategy to demonstrate how charters can improve overall public education and address funding transparency issues for all schools.

A Monster Update – An Elections Roundup Focusing on Under-Appreciated Developments

November 6, 2021

The post reflects on recent elections and their implications for charter schools across several states. Virginia appears poised for potential charter school advancements, while New Jersey’s support for charter schools diminishes with the loss of key advocates. States like Colorado and New Mexico show promise through emerging political infrastructures, although challenges remain.

CharterFolk Contributor – Karega Rausch, Some Thoughts on Professionalizing and Modernizing Authorizing

November 4, 2021

Karega Rausch, President and CEO of NACSA, emphasizes the importance of evolving and modernizing charter school authorizing to meet community needs. He proposes enhancing authorizing infrastructure, committing institutions to prioritizing authorizing roles, and diversifying the field with more representation from Black, Brown, and Indigenous individuals. These steps are essential for educational improvement and equity.

CharterFolk Monthly Digest for October 2021 – Readership Continues to Grow

October 31, 2021

This monthly digest shares updates from CharterFolk, including a keynote speech at a New York conference. Despite upcoming holidays, there is a focus on increasing subscriptions to meet financial goals. Notable posts discussed educational challenges, funding equity for charter schools, and the evolution of the charter school movement. Thanks to contributors for their insights.

CharterFolk Contributor – Ron Rice, The Next Iteration of Charter Schools Will Be Intentional, Of Color and Community/Economically Empowering – Are You Ready? I Don’t Think You Are

October 29, 2021

Ron Rice, a senior director at the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, highlights the evolution of charter schools. Over 30 years, these schools have expanded significantly, showing improved educational outcomes. The next phase focuses on intentional diversity, leadership by people of color, and community empowerment, promising real equity in public education and revitalization of underserved areas.

What Dilapidated School Buildings and Unrequited Love Have in Common

October 28, 2021

The article discusses the persistent issue of dilapidated school buildings in the U.S., exacerbated by underfunding in public education. It highlights a recent hearing on the dire conditions at Buena Vista Horace Mann School and critiques the lack of accountability in school districts. The author advocates for charter schools as a more accountable alternative.

CharterFolk X Vol 2.6 – Natasha Barriga, Standing Resolute With Kids and Communities Where Great Public Education is Needed Most

October 26, 2021

Natasha Barriga, Executive Director of Resolute Academy in Watts, Los Angeles, is honored as CharterFolk Extraordinaire. Since opening in 2015, the school has transformed from neglect to a thriving college preparatory institution for low-income students. Barriga exemplifies resilience and commitment to providing quality education for all children in her community.

“Epic” Reactions to Recent Posts and NAEP’s Constructive Pressure to “Lift the Mask”

October 24, 2021

In a reflective week, the author expresses gratitude for positive feedback on previous columns, particularly regarding public education issues. They confront critiques about media coverage of education, highlighting the importance of understanding systemic problems, especially in light of troubling NAEP results, which indicate a downward trend in school performance before the pandemic.

You’ll be back. Time Will Tell – Everybody Now! You Know the Hamilton Tune …

October 20, 2021

The content reflects concerns over declining student enrollment in California public schools, particularly in Los Angeles County, with predictions of a 20% drop. The ongoing inequity in funding between charter and district schools, exacerbated by temporary financial protections favoring districts, raises alarms about the future of education, prioritizing institutional needs over student welfare.